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us Embassy Dushanbe
ALUMNI NEWSLETTERIssue No4 June 2009
FLEX Alumni Say Good-Bye to
Cultural Affairs Officer
Anne Benjaminson
Issue No4 June 2009
IN THIS ISSUE
Embassy Upcoming Eventshelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphellip3
US Visit Results in Childrsquos Rights Centerhelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphellip4
Access Students Engage and Charm Ambassador Jacobsonhelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphellip5
Embassy Hosts Visit of Brenda Flanaganhelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphellip6
Embassy Presents David Korevaar Pianisthelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphellip7
USG and Soros Alumni Meet President Rahmonrdquos Senior Advisorshelliphellip8
Community Connections Alumni Initiative after Return from US8
A Virtual Art Exhibitionhelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphellip9
ldquoTogether We Carerdquo Debate Tournament in Almatyhelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphellip9
Embassy Hosts Day of Fun and Games for More than 140 Orphanshelliphellip10
International Childrenrsquos Day Celebration with Orphans Chkalovsk10
Farewell Party for Anne Benjaminson Cultural Affairs Officerhelliphelliphellip11
ldquoSmilerdquo International Childrenrsquos Day Celebration for Deaf Schoolhelliphelliphellip 11
ldquoRight To Happinessrdquo for Disabled and Vision-Impaired Childrenhelliphelliphellip12
Grant Writing Seminarhelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphellip13
Public Speaking Skills Workshophelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphellip13
UGrad Alumna Masuda Sobitova Shares US Experience helliphelliphelliphelliphelliphellip14
UGrad Alumna Organizes Three-Day Educational Traininghelliphelliphelliphelliphellip15
Letrsquos Keep the World Cleanhelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphellip15
Join State Alumnihelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphellip16
US Embassy Resourceshelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphellip16
Subscribe To Education USA Weekly Scholarship Fellowship Updateshellip16
American Cornershelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphellip17
Page 2
Issue No4 June 2009
Embassy Upcoming Events
Page 3
August 16 2009 ldquoYouth Enrichment Camps ndash A Leadership Opportunity for FLEX
Alumni Presented by American Camp Counselors Middy
Tilghman and Andrew McEwan
Location 86 Tolstoy Street ACCELS Office
Time 1600 pm
Hairiniso Elmuradova alumnus of the
USAID Community Connections program at
the office discussing her new project for
Construction of the Child Centre Photo
ACCELS
US Tour Initiates Childrsquos Rights Centre
Page 4
Issue No4 June 2009
she visited in Iowa while on the USAID
Community Connections program for
Women Leaders ldquoI thought it will be great
to have something like that center in
Tajikistan I wanted to create a place where
children would receive the support they
needrdquo After her return Hairinisso began
working intensively to bring her ideas into
reality and she founded the Shodi
(ldquohappinessrdquo) organization Currently the
center provides various services to children
who are in need of medical psychological
recreational and professional skill
development The center also works to
raise awareness in the general population of
childrensrsquo issues
Moreover Hairinisso achieved what few
local NGO leaders can she obtained land
from local authorities to build a new center
to accommodate the increasing needs of the
Bokhtar children who enjoy its services
Now her organization is in possession of
the land and waiting for the construction of
a new building
ldquoWe need to work with marginalized
children to arrive at a point where they feel
cared for by the community currently
many of the children who visit our centre
feel they can benefit society by selling their
handicrafts and enjoy what the community
of Bokhtar and other international
organizations have to offerrdquo With this in
mind Hairinisso continues to actively
engage with the community and with other
organizations that provide support to
children She is currently seeking support
to construct a new building for the center
ldquoI wanted to create a place where children
would receive the support they needrdquo
Two years ago Hairinisso Elmurodova would
never have dreamed of being director of a
childrsquos rights center focusing on the support
of orphaned disabled and impoverished
children from families of Tajikistanrsquos Bokhtar
district A former trainer for a public
association promoting rights of women in
Bokhtar she decided to open a Center for
Children after her USAID supported trip to
United States
Hairinisorsquos center is a prototype of the
American resource center for children that
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 5
Access Students Engage and Charm
Ambassador Jacobson
On June 25 2009 40 Access Microscholarship students and four teachers met Ambassador Jacobson
in the Information Resource Center to talk about USG exchange programs for students and the
Ambassadors career
Ambassador Jacobson spent 45 minutes with Access Micro-scholarship students and teachers from
the Operation Mercy organization The Ambassador conducted the exchanges in English Russian
and Tajik which delighted the students and put them at ease They asked about the Ambassadors
career the life of a diplomat and how they could get to the US to study This was the junior-high
age studentsrsquo first visit to the embassy They had a wonderful conversation with the Ambassador and
all participants were left with a very positive impression Although they had completed only one year
of after-school English study they introduced themselves and conducted most of the discussion in
English The IRC Coordinator made a brief introduction on the use of the IRC and distributed to
them IIP publications like the Education in US the brochure on the President Barak Obama a
brochure on ldquoBeing Muslim in Americardquo English Teaching Forum journal US A map with facts in
brief and Info US CDs
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 6
Brenda Flanagan Author Civil Rights Advocate
Flanagan spoke about the evolution of civil rights in the United States highlighting significant
events that led to improvements in equal rights for Black Americans such as Brown vs the Board
of Education Septima Clarks literacy campaigns to ensure Blacks could vote and Collette Colvin
refusing to relinquish her seat in the front of the bus She spoke about how the election of President
Obama was made possible by sacrifices and struggles of these and other civil rights advocates She
urged the audiences to continue the struggle against ldquoinstitutionalized racismrdquo that still affects US
citizens today Sharing the pain of prejudice sometimes brought tears to her eyes as when she spoke
of Emmett Till murdered on suspicion of whistling at a white woman or when she herself was shot
at after moving into a white neighborhood in Texarkana
Flanagan emphasized that fair and democratic government is an ongoing process and civil rights in
the US will continue even after the election of an African American president She communicated a
crucial message to inspire civil leaders in Tajikistan to advocate for rights codified in law but not
defended in practice
Brenda Flanagan also met with UGS programs alumni at the ldquoPamirrdquo restaurant Alumni were
asking a lot of questions about Flanaganrsquos published collection of short stories ldquoIn Praise of Island
Women and Other Crimesrdquo
Brenda Flanagan a professor of English and award winning writer from North Carolina
performed her short stories for audiences in Dushanbe Khujand and Qurghon-Teppa
The cultural event helped reach a broad Tajik audience from academia media business and cultural
circles high school and university students Through stories about Flanagans unique life history
and empathy with the poor and elderly Flanagan inspired members of the audience to volunteer for
civil society activities to help the disadvantaged
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 7
The US Embassy Presents David Korevaar Pianist
After being introduced by Ambassador Tracey Jacobson
Boulder Colorado-based pianist David Korevaar
performed for a capacity crowd at the Kamoli Khujandi
Theater in Khujand His repertoire included American
works as well as pieces by Tajik composers Zaydullo and
Tolib Shahidi Following the concert Korevaar signed
autographs and took pictures with fans This activity
promoted American music and culture in a remote region
of Tajikistan that rarely welcomes foreign visitors
Cultural Envoy David Korevaar
performed before a packed house at the
Tajik Conservatory Korevaarrsquos
performance was part of the
International Piano Festival which
featured pianists from Russia
Kazakhstan Kyrgyzstan Tajikistan
and the United States At his solo
concert Korevaar played pieces by
Aaron Copland and Franz Liszt as well
as compositions by Tajik composers
Ziyodullo and Tolib Shahidi The
pianist talked about music and
American culture with visitors to the
Dushanbe American Corner
Korevaar held master classes in five
music schools and conservatories in
Dushanbe and Khujand Students
played pieces for him so that he could
assess their techniques and skills
At Dushanbersquos American Corner Korevaar discusses music and American culture with patrons
During his 10-day visit to Tajikistan Korevaar gave concerts in Dushanbe and Khujand and
taught master classes in five music schools and conservatories in Dushanbe and Khujand This
was Korevaarrsquos second Tajik sojourn he first visited Tajikistan in April 2008
USG and Soros Alumni Discuss Economic Crisis with
President Rahmons Senior Economic Advisors
Alumni of a Community Connection Loan Management June 2009 program in Bluefield West
Virginia returned and developed the program ldquoEducational Training for Girls in Istaravshanrdquo
The main aim of this program is to increase opportunities for 12 girls from Istravshan to pursue
higher education by preparing them for graduate study through additional to school training in
English and leadership The long term goal of the program is to encourage target girls to become
leaders in their communities
The training for girls aims at promoting volunteerism among CC alumni by their active
participation in the program as invited speakers and monitors of the program implementation but
also aims at transferring the attitude to beneficiaries of the program to develop a volunteering
concept in local communities
Loan management alumni had a chance to participate in volunteer activities and learn the concept of
volunteerism in the United States Participants observed how Americans contribute to their
communities and help shape the society they live in On return to Tajikistan the alumni also
founded the Community Connections Alumni Association a nongovernmental organization
through which they plan to implement various activities whose ultimate goal is to benefit the local
communities they represent Irrespective of a wide spectrum of professional fields which CC alumni
represent the CC Alumni Association will work on strengthening the concept of volunteerism in
Tajikistan
Community Connections Alumni
Launch Association and Programs after Return from US
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 8
Nematjon Buriev and Farrukh Hamraliev senior adviser to President Rahmon briefed USG and
Soros alumni working in the economic and financial sectors on Government of Tajikistan efforts
to mitigate the crisis in Tajikistan at a roundtable discussion June 23 2009
The government economic policy experts and alumni with global perspectives and expertise
shared their assessments of the scope and duration of the global economic crisis on Tajikistans
fragile economy The advisors expressed appreciation for the experience of the alumni The
roundtable helped forge relationships between people with knowledge that can affect the countrys
economic future
On July 2 2009 the Association of Fulbright Alumni and Informational Center on Human
Rights organized a virtual art exhibition at the American Corner in Dushanbe The exhibition
was dedicated to Independence Day of the US Alla Aslitdinova Director of Scientific Library
of Academy of Science and Fulbright alumna 2004-2005 made a presentation about American
history and the Memorial Day Holiday The students were very interested and asked many
questions Fulbright alumni also made presentations about USG educational exchange programs
and encourage students to participate in those programs
A Virtual Art Exhibition
From June 24-26 Malika Khakimova rsquo04
Farangis Nozimzoda rsquo07 and Kadamsho
Usufbekov rsquo05 participated in the ldquoTogether
We Carerdquo project organized by Kazakhstan
FLEX alumni in Almaty The purpose of the
project was to strengthen relationships
between the alumni community of the
participant countries and together solve
problems of financial world crises and border
related issues These issues were topics of the
debate tournament and round table
discussion which were held on the second day
of event Alumni plan to implement
solutions offered though the round tables
discussion and debate in their further work
within their own communities
ldquoTogether We Carerdquo Debate Tournament in Almaty
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 9
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 10
Fifteen FLEX alumni volunteered to help the US Embassy host more than 140 children from the
Tursun-Zade Orphanage for a full day of fun on May 10 Games and activities included football
basketball swimming and volleyball The children also learned traditional American games such as
hopscotch and ldquoSlip N Sliderdquo flew kites and made art projects The event included a full lunch
which was partially sponsored by the Sega Fredo and Morning Star Cafes A live band performed
traditional Tajik music in the afternoon The children brought their favorite toys back to the
orphanage
Embassy Hosts Day of Fun and Games for More Than
140 Orphans
On June 1 group of Khujand FLEX alumni together with initiative group ldquoOur Kidsrdquo visited the
orphanage in the city of Chkalovsk The event was divided into three parts The first part
consisted of introducing alumni to orphans and their teachers Alumni talked about the FLEX
program and motivated children to study English and participate in the FLEX tests After the
introduction children were divided in to three groups o play different games Alumni played
basketball tennis rockets American football and other American games with the children
American football was the most popular sport because it was something new for them FLEX
alumnus Mukhtor Soliev rsquo07 presented to the children his own football which he brought from
the US as a memento from the FLEX community By the end of the games participants of the
winning teams were awarded with presents The second part of the event took place indoors
Alumni showed pa resentation about the environment and had a session with children about
keeping the environment clean Afterward the session alumni organized mini coffee- break for
the children The third part of the event consisted of a poetry reading contest in which all
children participated They read poems in Tajik Russian and English languages and sang songs
At the end of the event alumni distributed clothes which they earlier collected through a
clothing drive
International Childrenrsquos Day Celebration With Orphans Chkalovsk
Farewell Party for Anne Benjaminson Cultural Affairs Officer
Poster ldquoWe Will Miss You Annerdquo During the meeting the alumni wished her the best of luck in
her further work shared their thoughts and their future plans After two years of acquaintance
the alumni thanked Anne for her wonderful cooperation with FLEX alumni In the end alumni
presented a memorable t-shirt and delicious cake which alumni specially ordered for Anne Ms
Benjaminson was amazed by the memorable t-shirt and sincerely thanked alumni for their work
For International Childrenrsquos Day Farangis
Nozimzoda lsquo07 Zurab Dodkhudoev lsquo07 and
Abdulvakob Hofizi lsquo09 visited the Global
Connections and Exchange program students
from school No8 for the deaf children in
Dushanbe on June 2 Especially for this event
alumni prepared variety of interesting
activities which were aimed to learn origami
and develop personal skills The event
consisted of three parts the first part
included introduction the second part
consisted of making photo portieres from the
magazines and during the third part of the
event children were learning origami ndash the
traditional Japanese art of paper folding
Children found these activities interesting
and were enthusiastic about implementing
them The event concluded with taking a lot
of pictures
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 11
On June 5 FLEX Alumni organized a
farewell party dedicated to Anne
Benjaminson ndash US Embassy Cultural
Affairs Officer Anne worked as the
Cultural Affairs Officer in Tajikistan for
two years and during this time
established warm and close relationships
with FLEX alumni For her support of all
FLEX alumni activities a group of
FLEX alumni made special preparations
for the farewell meeting They decorated
the conference hall in the American
Councils office with a big colored
ldquoSmileldquo International Childrenrsquos Day Celebration with
the Children from the Deaf School
ldquoRight To Happinessrdquo Project with Disabled Children and
Children With Poor Eyesight
Within the framework of the GYSD
FLEX alumni and Tajikistan
Assosiation of the Blind Children
organized a sale exhibition of hand made
objects mosaics and paintings of the
children with physical and mental
disabilities and poor eysight in
Molodejniy theater on April 26 This
event was supported by the US
Embassy which provided financial aid to
rent the theater The rest of the money
neccessary for the posters childrenrsquos
transportation and small gifts for
participants had been previously raised
by alumni On the day of the event
Kadamsho Usufbekov sbquo05 Shoira
Pulatova sbquo08 Zurab Dodkhudoev sbquo07 and
Farangis Nozizmoda sbquo07 early in the
morning got together in the hall of
Molodejniy theater to help decorators
from bdquoFormula Schastyardquo ndash decoration
agency who kindly consented to
decorate the Exibition and Concert halls
for free
The sale exhibition started at 10 am FLEX
alumni stayed near every table and answered
questions of the visitors After the exibition
alumni performed a concert with the
participation of the children with physical
and mental disabilities and poor eyesight
and what was suprise ndash Tajik Pop Stars For
their performance the Tajik Pop Stars did
not charge the alumni any money
The concert was led by two boys with poor
eyesight During the concert talented
children with disabilities sang songs
performed dances and read poems In
concert participated such Tajik Pop Stars as
Takhmina Niyozava and dance band ldquoWestrdquo
The children were very happy
Over all more than 150 school children
university students foreigners from
different NGOrsquos and other individuals
visited the exhibition and the concert This
event was highlighted on radio BBC Iran
and newsletter ldquoJumhuriyatrdquo
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 12
Issue No4 June 2009
On May 4 2009 IREX Tajikistan
organized a Grant Writing Seminar for
the Alumni Small Grant Program
(ASGP) and Project Smile (PS) at the
Tahvid Hotel Conference Hall in
Khujand The seminar was attended by
approximately 20 ECA alumni of
programs including UGRAD TEA
FLEX and Global Connections and
Exchange Education Programs Division
Program Coordinator Bakhtiyor Isoev
facilitated the
Page 13
seminar which aimed to familiarize alumni with the basic principles of designing a project and
writing successful grant applications for the upcoming October rounds of the Alumni Small Grant
Program (ASGP) and Project Smile (PS)
Alumni learned how to better identify and approach potential donors as well as general techniques
for writing quality grant applications Alumni also had a chance to share their past experiences
applying to grant programs with other participants and discussed lessons learned in the areas of
needs assessments cost-sharing and in-kind contributions sustainability and multiplier effect
issues budget and implementation feasibility goal and objective development and many more
All attendees received certificates of achievement and IREX staff encouraged alumni to apply for
upcoming rounds of ASGP and PS applications At the end everyone left the seminar with at least
five project ideas and newly equipped grant writing skills
Grant Writing Seminar
Public Speaking Skills Workshop
On May 27 2009 IREX
Tajikistan organized a Public
Speaking Skills Training in the
Dusti Amirkhon Business
Restaurantrsquos Conference Hall The
workshop was attended by
approximately 20 ECA alumni
living and studying in Sugd
Region These alumni include
UGRAD TEA FLEX and Global
Connections alumni as well as
2009-2010 Global UGRAD
finalists The workshop was
conducted in English by IREX
Tajikistan Education Programs
Division Program Coordinator
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 14
Bakhtiyor Isoev The goal of the workshop was to familiarize alumni with the basic principles of
public speaking and equip them with the skills necessary to feel confident while speaking in front
of people
After few energizing and teambuilding activities the first part of the workshop was dedicated to
getting to know what communication communication genres and the communication process are
Next all attendees were instructed to come up with and generate words on flipcharts that make
them think about public speaking Having played the game alumni presented their understanding
of public speaking The training continued with interactive games that helped equip participants
with the necessary skills to be better public speakers use and conduct PowerPoint presentations in
a more productive manner Afterwards participants were split into three groups to come up with
topics and make a short presentation about their idea The workshop ended with IREX Tajikistan
staff handing certificates of achievement all participants
UGrad alumna Masuda Sobitova visited the American Corner in Khujand and showed patrons a
Power Point presentation of her stay in the United States researching English teaching curriculum
development
Sobitova inspired the students by sharing her incredible experience in the United States studying at
Graceland University in Lamoni Iowa her internship and cultural presentations cooking Tajik
food and traveling to other states She introduced America to the audience in her presentation by
sharing very beautiful photos postcards presents and souvenirs After Sobitovas presentation the
students were eager to learn more about the UGrad program and asked lots of questions on how to
get better prepared and apply for such programs Sobitova responded to their questions applying
her considerable experience gained as a participant of the UGrad program
UGRAD Alumna Masuda Sobitova
Shares Her US Experience
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 15
UGRAD 2007-2008 alumna Mukhlisa Parpieva organized
a three-day educational training for her university
classmates at the student dorm of Khujand State
University May 20th through May 22nd The training
allowed students to learn about US Education System and
the Global UGRAD Program and its application process
On the second day participants has watched a movie in
English and have discussed it afterwards in English
UGRAD alumni Mahfuza Sobitova (UGRAD 2007-2008)
and Masuda Sobitova (UGRAD 2008-2009) provided their
support in organizing these activities in Khujand A third-
year student participant commented ldquoThis training has been
a good lesson for me and gave a lot of information about
education system of the US and study opportunities abroad
UGRAD Alumna Organizes Three-Day Educational Training
I was so glad I could participate in this
training I learned a lot Moreover I
enjoyed the Movie Night which was
fun and informative Thanks to the
IREX for supporting the events which
serve to provide students with very
useful informationrdquo
Mukhlisa noted in her report to
IREX Tajikistan Actually the Three-
Day Educational Training was the best
event I have ever conducted It was the
process of learning about opportunities
sharing ideas finding out about the
successful application that is how to fill
applications effectively and having fun
by watching the ldquoBend it Like
Bekhamrdquo movie During these three
days I enjoyed answering studentsrsquo
questions about studying abroad and my
own university experience in the US
Usually teachers are inspired by their
studentsrsquo active learning and like a
teacher I was so happy to see studentsrsquo
interests and active participation in all
activitiesrdquo
On May 29 2009 over 40 US Government-sponsored
alumni including alumni of the Global UGRAD FLEX
and TEA programs as well as Global UGRAD finalists
and other university students volunteered at the ldquoLetrsquosKeep the World Cleanrdquo service event in Kayrakkum The
purpose of the event was to raise the awareness among
alumni about environment protection and make alumni
contribute by cleaning the lakeshore The service was
organized by IREX Tajikistan in the framework of the
UGRAD and Muskie alumni programming with
cooperation of Youth Group for Protection of the
Environment (YGPE)
Letrsquos Keep the World Clean
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 16
Join State Alumni Your Global Community for alumni of
State Department exchange programs
Who are Alumni ndash Your Global Community
Alumni are past participants of US government-sponsored exchange programs With more
than 1000000 alumni worldwide State Alumni include world leaders achievers and
influencers Among this global community are 47 Nobel Laureates and over 300 chiefs of state
or heads of government They are politicians CEOs teachers authors artists and most
importantly you As an alumnusa of a State Department-funded exchange program you are
part of a global community of the best and brightest Build upon your exchange experience to
advance your goals your community and our world
State Alumni Opportunities and resources for you to connect with other alumni
middot Hundreds of grant job and event postings
middot Over 20000 free titles in the online research center
middot Access to apply for over $33 billion in funding opportunities
middot News about alumni projects alumni success stories
middot Participate in QampA Live discussions with experts
middot Share your reflections or research publications and join discussion forums
middot Find fellow alumni to network with others in your field or your region
middot Search for resumes or add your own to the global community
Continue the exchange as alumni
middot Be active in your local alumni community
middot Join State Alumni (httpsalumnistategov) and the international social network
ldquoExchanges Connectrdquo httpconnectstategov
middot Discover meet share learn grow and achieve
US Embassy DushanbeWeb httpdushanbeusembassygov
httprussiandushanbeusembassygov
bullDo you want to study in the United State
bullWant to learn more about these exchange programs at the US Embassy
Sign up for the mailing list from the Public Diplomacy section of the US Embassy Dushanbe to
find out about these programs and more Simply send a blank e-mail message to
usembassydushanbeprograms-subscribeyahoogroupscom
Educational Advising CenterAmerican Councils for International Education ACTRACCELS Dushanbe
734003 86 Tolstoy Street Tajikistan
To subscribe to the Education USA Weekly Update on scholarships and fellowships distribution list please
send your request to EducationUSAamericancouncils-tjorg
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 17
Sponsored jointly by a US embassy and a host country organization an American Corner
serves as an information outpost similar to a public library The multi-media book and
periodical collections are open and accessible Where possible associated reading or meeting
rooms are made available to host program events and activities (ie author readings speaker
programs films workshops meetings and exhibits) The fundamental function of the American
Corner is to make information about the United States available to foreign publics at large
American Corner consists of a collection of books in English from and about the United States
The book collection may include reference titles information products from the State
Department Office of International Information Programs works of fiction business and
government publications English Language Learning materials American Corners also provide
access to US information through access to the Internet audio and video products CDs and
CD-ROMS The Corners are staffed by host institution personnel
There are three American Corners currently functioning in Tajikistan in Dushanbe Khujand
and Kulob and two more to be opened soon in Khorog and Qurghon-Teppa
American Corners Contact Information
Dushanbe American Corner Qurghon-Teppa American Corner
Central Scientific Library Sworde-Teppa Center
Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan 25 Vahdat Street
33 Rudaki Avenue Tel (992) (3222) 29528
Tel (992) (37) 2275526 E-mail acqurghon_teppayahoocom
E-mail acdushanbemailru
Khujand American Corner Khorog American Corner
Asiri Public Library Educational Center
1 Lenin Street 1 Azizbek Street
Tel (992) (342) 260313 Tel (992) (3522) 22299
E-mail ackhujandramblerru E-mail ackhorogyahoocom
Kulob American Corner
Kulob Branch Technological University
Borbad Street 9th microregion
Tel (992) 918 57 92 25
E-mail ackulobyahoocom
American Corners Tajikistan
American Corners are partnerships between the Public Affairs
sections of United States Embassies and host institutions
They provide access to current and reliable information from
and about the United States via book collections the Internet
and through local programming to the general public overseas
or abroad
Issue No4 June 2009
IN THIS ISSUE
Embassy Upcoming Eventshelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphellip3
US Visit Results in Childrsquos Rights Centerhelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphellip4
Access Students Engage and Charm Ambassador Jacobsonhelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphellip5
Embassy Hosts Visit of Brenda Flanaganhelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphellip6
Embassy Presents David Korevaar Pianisthelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphellip7
USG and Soros Alumni Meet President Rahmonrdquos Senior Advisorshelliphellip8
Community Connections Alumni Initiative after Return from US8
A Virtual Art Exhibitionhelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphellip9
ldquoTogether We Carerdquo Debate Tournament in Almatyhelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphellip9
Embassy Hosts Day of Fun and Games for More than 140 Orphanshelliphellip10
International Childrenrsquos Day Celebration with Orphans Chkalovsk10
Farewell Party for Anne Benjaminson Cultural Affairs Officerhelliphelliphellip11
ldquoSmilerdquo International Childrenrsquos Day Celebration for Deaf Schoolhelliphelliphellip 11
ldquoRight To Happinessrdquo for Disabled and Vision-Impaired Childrenhelliphelliphellip12
Grant Writing Seminarhelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphellip13
Public Speaking Skills Workshophelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphellip13
UGrad Alumna Masuda Sobitova Shares US Experience helliphelliphelliphelliphelliphellip14
UGrad Alumna Organizes Three-Day Educational Traininghelliphelliphelliphelliphellip15
Letrsquos Keep the World Cleanhelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphellip15
Join State Alumnihelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphellip16
US Embassy Resourceshelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphellip16
Subscribe To Education USA Weekly Scholarship Fellowship Updateshellip16
American Cornershelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphelliphellip17
Page 2
Issue No4 June 2009
Embassy Upcoming Events
Page 3
August 16 2009 ldquoYouth Enrichment Camps ndash A Leadership Opportunity for FLEX
Alumni Presented by American Camp Counselors Middy
Tilghman and Andrew McEwan
Location 86 Tolstoy Street ACCELS Office
Time 1600 pm
Hairiniso Elmuradova alumnus of the
USAID Community Connections program at
the office discussing her new project for
Construction of the Child Centre Photo
ACCELS
US Tour Initiates Childrsquos Rights Centre
Page 4
Issue No4 June 2009
she visited in Iowa while on the USAID
Community Connections program for
Women Leaders ldquoI thought it will be great
to have something like that center in
Tajikistan I wanted to create a place where
children would receive the support they
needrdquo After her return Hairinisso began
working intensively to bring her ideas into
reality and she founded the Shodi
(ldquohappinessrdquo) organization Currently the
center provides various services to children
who are in need of medical psychological
recreational and professional skill
development The center also works to
raise awareness in the general population of
childrensrsquo issues
Moreover Hairinisso achieved what few
local NGO leaders can she obtained land
from local authorities to build a new center
to accommodate the increasing needs of the
Bokhtar children who enjoy its services
Now her organization is in possession of
the land and waiting for the construction of
a new building
ldquoWe need to work with marginalized
children to arrive at a point where they feel
cared for by the community currently
many of the children who visit our centre
feel they can benefit society by selling their
handicrafts and enjoy what the community
of Bokhtar and other international
organizations have to offerrdquo With this in
mind Hairinisso continues to actively
engage with the community and with other
organizations that provide support to
children She is currently seeking support
to construct a new building for the center
ldquoI wanted to create a place where children
would receive the support they needrdquo
Two years ago Hairinisso Elmurodova would
never have dreamed of being director of a
childrsquos rights center focusing on the support
of orphaned disabled and impoverished
children from families of Tajikistanrsquos Bokhtar
district A former trainer for a public
association promoting rights of women in
Bokhtar she decided to open a Center for
Children after her USAID supported trip to
United States
Hairinisorsquos center is a prototype of the
American resource center for children that
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 5
Access Students Engage and Charm
Ambassador Jacobson
On June 25 2009 40 Access Microscholarship students and four teachers met Ambassador Jacobson
in the Information Resource Center to talk about USG exchange programs for students and the
Ambassadors career
Ambassador Jacobson spent 45 minutes with Access Micro-scholarship students and teachers from
the Operation Mercy organization The Ambassador conducted the exchanges in English Russian
and Tajik which delighted the students and put them at ease They asked about the Ambassadors
career the life of a diplomat and how they could get to the US to study This was the junior-high
age studentsrsquo first visit to the embassy They had a wonderful conversation with the Ambassador and
all participants were left with a very positive impression Although they had completed only one year
of after-school English study they introduced themselves and conducted most of the discussion in
English The IRC Coordinator made a brief introduction on the use of the IRC and distributed to
them IIP publications like the Education in US the brochure on the President Barak Obama a
brochure on ldquoBeing Muslim in Americardquo English Teaching Forum journal US A map with facts in
brief and Info US CDs
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 6
Brenda Flanagan Author Civil Rights Advocate
Flanagan spoke about the evolution of civil rights in the United States highlighting significant
events that led to improvements in equal rights for Black Americans such as Brown vs the Board
of Education Septima Clarks literacy campaigns to ensure Blacks could vote and Collette Colvin
refusing to relinquish her seat in the front of the bus She spoke about how the election of President
Obama was made possible by sacrifices and struggles of these and other civil rights advocates She
urged the audiences to continue the struggle against ldquoinstitutionalized racismrdquo that still affects US
citizens today Sharing the pain of prejudice sometimes brought tears to her eyes as when she spoke
of Emmett Till murdered on suspicion of whistling at a white woman or when she herself was shot
at after moving into a white neighborhood in Texarkana
Flanagan emphasized that fair and democratic government is an ongoing process and civil rights in
the US will continue even after the election of an African American president She communicated a
crucial message to inspire civil leaders in Tajikistan to advocate for rights codified in law but not
defended in practice
Brenda Flanagan also met with UGS programs alumni at the ldquoPamirrdquo restaurant Alumni were
asking a lot of questions about Flanaganrsquos published collection of short stories ldquoIn Praise of Island
Women and Other Crimesrdquo
Brenda Flanagan a professor of English and award winning writer from North Carolina
performed her short stories for audiences in Dushanbe Khujand and Qurghon-Teppa
The cultural event helped reach a broad Tajik audience from academia media business and cultural
circles high school and university students Through stories about Flanagans unique life history
and empathy with the poor and elderly Flanagan inspired members of the audience to volunteer for
civil society activities to help the disadvantaged
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 7
The US Embassy Presents David Korevaar Pianist
After being introduced by Ambassador Tracey Jacobson
Boulder Colorado-based pianist David Korevaar
performed for a capacity crowd at the Kamoli Khujandi
Theater in Khujand His repertoire included American
works as well as pieces by Tajik composers Zaydullo and
Tolib Shahidi Following the concert Korevaar signed
autographs and took pictures with fans This activity
promoted American music and culture in a remote region
of Tajikistan that rarely welcomes foreign visitors
Cultural Envoy David Korevaar
performed before a packed house at the
Tajik Conservatory Korevaarrsquos
performance was part of the
International Piano Festival which
featured pianists from Russia
Kazakhstan Kyrgyzstan Tajikistan
and the United States At his solo
concert Korevaar played pieces by
Aaron Copland and Franz Liszt as well
as compositions by Tajik composers
Ziyodullo and Tolib Shahidi The
pianist talked about music and
American culture with visitors to the
Dushanbe American Corner
Korevaar held master classes in five
music schools and conservatories in
Dushanbe and Khujand Students
played pieces for him so that he could
assess their techniques and skills
At Dushanbersquos American Corner Korevaar discusses music and American culture with patrons
During his 10-day visit to Tajikistan Korevaar gave concerts in Dushanbe and Khujand and
taught master classes in five music schools and conservatories in Dushanbe and Khujand This
was Korevaarrsquos second Tajik sojourn he first visited Tajikistan in April 2008
USG and Soros Alumni Discuss Economic Crisis with
President Rahmons Senior Economic Advisors
Alumni of a Community Connection Loan Management June 2009 program in Bluefield West
Virginia returned and developed the program ldquoEducational Training for Girls in Istaravshanrdquo
The main aim of this program is to increase opportunities for 12 girls from Istravshan to pursue
higher education by preparing them for graduate study through additional to school training in
English and leadership The long term goal of the program is to encourage target girls to become
leaders in their communities
The training for girls aims at promoting volunteerism among CC alumni by their active
participation in the program as invited speakers and monitors of the program implementation but
also aims at transferring the attitude to beneficiaries of the program to develop a volunteering
concept in local communities
Loan management alumni had a chance to participate in volunteer activities and learn the concept of
volunteerism in the United States Participants observed how Americans contribute to their
communities and help shape the society they live in On return to Tajikistan the alumni also
founded the Community Connections Alumni Association a nongovernmental organization
through which they plan to implement various activities whose ultimate goal is to benefit the local
communities they represent Irrespective of a wide spectrum of professional fields which CC alumni
represent the CC Alumni Association will work on strengthening the concept of volunteerism in
Tajikistan
Community Connections Alumni
Launch Association and Programs after Return from US
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 8
Nematjon Buriev and Farrukh Hamraliev senior adviser to President Rahmon briefed USG and
Soros alumni working in the economic and financial sectors on Government of Tajikistan efforts
to mitigate the crisis in Tajikistan at a roundtable discussion June 23 2009
The government economic policy experts and alumni with global perspectives and expertise
shared their assessments of the scope and duration of the global economic crisis on Tajikistans
fragile economy The advisors expressed appreciation for the experience of the alumni The
roundtable helped forge relationships between people with knowledge that can affect the countrys
economic future
On July 2 2009 the Association of Fulbright Alumni and Informational Center on Human
Rights organized a virtual art exhibition at the American Corner in Dushanbe The exhibition
was dedicated to Independence Day of the US Alla Aslitdinova Director of Scientific Library
of Academy of Science and Fulbright alumna 2004-2005 made a presentation about American
history and the Memorial Day Holiday The students were very interested and asked many
questions Fulbright alumni also made presentations about USG educational exchange programs
and encourage students to participate in those programs
A Virtual Art Exhibition
From June 24-26 Malika Khakimova rsquo04
Farangis Nozimzoda rsquo07 and Kadamsho
Usufbekov rsquo05 participated in the ldquoTogether
We Carerdquo project organized by Kazakhstan
FLEX alumni in Almaty The purpose of the
project was to strengthen relationships
between the alumni community of the
participant countries and together solve
problems of financial world crises and border
related issues These issues were topics of the
debate tournament and round table
discussion which were held on the second day
of event Alumni plan to implement
solutions offered though the round tables
discussion and debate in their further work
within their own communities
ldquoTogether We Carerdquo Debate Tournament in Almaty
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 9
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 10
Fifteen FLEX alumni volunteered to help the US Embassy host more than 140 children from the
Tursun-Zade Orphanage for a full day of fun on May 10 Games and activities included football
basketball swimming and volleyball The children also learned traditional American games such as
hopscotch and ldquoSlip N Sliderdquo flew kites and made art projects The event included a full lunch
which was partially sponsored by the Sega Fredo and Morning Star Cafes A live band performed
traditional Tajik music in the afternoon The children brought their favorite toys back to the
orphanage
Embassy Hosts Day of Fun and Games for More Than
140 Orphans
On June 1 group of Khujand FLEX alumni together with initiative group ldquoOur Kidsrdquo visited the
orphanage in the city of Chkalovsk The event was divided into three parts The first part
consisted of introducing alumni to orphans and their teachers Alumni talked about the FLEX
program and motivated children to study English and participate in the FLEX tests After the
introduction children were divided in to three groups o play different games Alumni played
basketball tennis rockets American football and other American games with the children
American football was the most popular sport because it was something new for them FLEX
alumnus Mukhtor Soliev rsquo07 presented to the children his own football which he brought from
the US as a memento from the FLEX community By the end of the games participants of the
winning teams were awarded with presents The second part of the event took place indoors
Alumni showed pa resentation about the environment and had a session with children about
keeping the environment clean Afterward the session alumni organized mini coffee- break for
the children The third part of the event consisted of a poetry reading contest in which all
children participated They read poems in Tajik Russian and English languages and sang songs
At the end of the event alumni distributed clothes which they earlier collected through a
clothing drive
International Childrenrsquos Day Celebration With Orphans Chkalovsk
Farewell Party for Anne Benjaminson Cultural Affairs Officer
Poster ldquoWe Will Miss You Annerdquo During the meeting the alumni wished her the best of luck in
her further work shared their thoughts and their future plans After two years of acquaintance
the alumni thanked Anne for her wonderful cooperation with FLEX alumni In the end alumni
presented a memorable t-shirt and delicious cake which alumni specially ordered for Anne Ms
Benjaminson was amazed by the memorable t-shirt and sincerely thanked alumni for their work
For International Childrenrsquos Day Farangis
Nozimzoda lsquo07 Zurab Dodkhudoev lsquo07 and
Abdulvakob Hofizi lsquo09 visited the Global
Connections and Exchange program students
from school No8 for the deaf children in
Dushanbe on June 2 Especially for this event
alumni prepared variety of interesting
activities which were aimed to learn origami
and develop personal skills The event
consisted of three parts the first part
included introduction the second part
consisted of making photo portieres from the
magazines and during the third part of the
event children were learning origami ndash the
traditional Japanese art of paper folding
Children found these activities interesting
and were enthusiastic about implementing
them The event concluded with taking a lot
of pictures
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 11
On June 5 FLEX Alumni organized a
farewell party dedicated to Anne
Benjaminson ndash US Embassy Cultural
Affairs Officer Anne worked as the
Cultural Affairs Officer in Tajikistan for
two years and during this time
established warm and close relationships
with FLEX alumni For her support of all
FLEX alumni activities a group of
FLEX alumni made special preparations
for the farewell meeting They decorated
the conference hall in the American
Councils office with a big colored
ldquoSmileldquo International Childrenrsquos Day Celebration with
the Children from the Deaf School
ldquoRight To Happinessrdquo Project with Disabled Children and
Children With Poor Eyesight
Within the framework of the GYSD
FLEX alumni and Tajikistan
Assosiation of the Blind Children
organized a sale exhibition of hand made
objects mosaics and paintings of the
children with physical and mental
disabilities and poor eysight in
Molodejniy theater on April 26 This
event was supported by the US
Embassy which provided financial aid to
rent the theater The rest of the money
neccessary for the posters childrenrsquos
transportation and small gifts for
participants had been previously raised
by alumni On the day of the event
Kadamsho Usufbekov sbquo05 Shoira
Pulatova sbquo08 Zurab Dodkhudoev sbquo07 and
Farangis Nozizmoda sbquo07 early in the
morning got together in the hall of
Molodejniy theater to help decorators
from bdquoFormula Schastyardquo ndash decoration
agency who kindly consented to
decorate the Exibition and Concert halls
for free
The sale exhibition started at 10 am FLEX
alumni stayed near every table and answered
questions of the visitors After the exibition
alumni performed a concert with the
participation of the children with physical
and mental disabilities and poor eyesight
and what was suprise ndash Tajik Pop Stars For
their performance the Tajik Pop Stars did
not charge the alumni any money
The concert was led by two boys with poor
eyesight During the concert talented
children with disabilities sang songs
performed dances and read poems In
concert participated such Tajik Pop Stars as
Takhmina Niyozava and dance band ldquoWestrdquo
The children were very happy
Over all more than 150 school children
university students foreigners from
different NGOrsquos and other individuals
visited the exhibition and the concert This
event was highlighted on radio BBC Iran
and newsletter ldquoJumhuriyatrdquo
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 12
Issue No4 June 2009
On May 4 2009 IREX Tajikistan
organized a Grant Writing Seminar for
the Alumni Small Grant Program
(ASGP) and Project Smile (PS) at the
Tahvid Hotel Conference Hall in
Khujand The seminar was attended by
approximately 20 ECA alumni of
programs including UGRAD TEA
FLEX and Global Connections and
Exchange Education Programs Division
Program Coordinator Bakhtiyor Isoev
facilitated the
Page 13
seminar which aimed to familiarize alumni with the basic principles of designing a project and
writing successful grant applications for the upcoming October rounds of the Alumni Small Grant
Program (ASGP) and Project Smile (PS)
Alumni learned how to better identify and approach potential donors as well as general techniques
for writing quality grant applications Alumni also had a chance to share their past experiences
applying to grant programs with other participants and discussed lessons learned in the areas of
needs assessments cost-sharing and in-kind contributions sustainability and multiplier effect
issues budget and implementation feasibility goal and objective development and many more
All attendees received certificates of achievement and IREX staff encouraged alumni to apply for
upcoming rounds of ASGP and PS applications At the end everyone left the seminar with at least
five project ideas and newly equipped grant writing skills
Grant Writing Seminar
Public Speaking Skills Workshop
On May 27 2009 IREX
Tajikistan organized a Public
Speaking Skills Training in the
Dusti Amirkhon Business
Restaurantrsquos Conference Hall The
workshop was attended by
approximately 20 ECA alumni
living and studying in Sugd
Region These alumni include
UGRAD TEA FLEX and Global
Connections alumni as well as
2009-2010 Global UGRAD
finalists The workshop was
conducted in English by IREX
Tajikistan Education Programs
Division Program Coordinator
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 14
Bakhtiyor Isoev The goal of the workshop was to familiarize alumni with the basic principles of
public speaking and equip them with the skills necessary to feel confident while speaking in front
of people
After few energizing and teambuilding activities the first part of the workshop was dedicated to
getting to know what communication communication genres and the communication process are
Next all attendees were instructed to come up with and generate words on flipcharts that make
them think about public speaking Having played the game alumni presented their understanding
of public speaking The training continued with interactive games that helped equip participants
with the necessary skills to be better public speakers use and conduct PowerPoint presentations in
a more productive manner Afterwards participants were split into three groups to come up with
topics and make a short presentation about their idea The workshop ended with IREX Tajikistan
staff handing certificates of achievement all participants
UGrad alumna Masuda Sobitova visited the American Corner in Khujand and showed patrons a
Power Point presentation of her stay in the United States researching English teaching curriculum
development
Sobitova inspired the students by sharing her incredible experience in the United States studying at
Graceland University in Lamoni Iowa her internship and cultural presentations cooking Tajik
food and traveling to other states She introduced America to the audience in her presentation by
sharing very beautiful photos postcards presents and souvenirs After Sobitovas presentation the
students were eager to learn more about the UGrad program and asked lots of questions on how to
get better prepared and apply for such programs Sobitova responded to their questions applying
her considerable experience gained as a participant of the UGrad program
UGRAD Alumna Masuda Sobitova
Shares Her US Experience
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 15
UGRAD 2007-2008 alumna Mukhlisa Parpieva organized
a three-day educational training for her university
classmates at the student dorm of Khujand State
University May 20th through May 22nd The training
allowed students to learn about US Education System and
the Global UGRAD Program and its application process
On the second day participants has watched a movie in
English and have discussed it afterwards in English
UGRAD alumni Mahfuza Sobitova (UGRAD 2007-2008)
and Masuda Sobitova (UGRAD 2008-2009) provided their
support in organizing these activities in Khujand A third-
year student participant commented ldquoThis training has been
a good lesson for me and gave a lot of information about
education system of the US and study opportunities abroad
UGRAD Alumna Organizes Three-Day Educational Training
I was so glad I could participate in this
training I learned a lot Moreover I
enjoyed the Movie Night which was
fun and informative Thanks to the
IREX for supporting the events which
serve to provide students with very
useful informationrdquo
Mukhlisa noted in her report to
IREX Tajikistan Actually the Three-
Day Educational Training was the best
event I have ever conducted It was the
process of learning about opportunities
sharing ideas finding out about the
successful application that is how to fill
applications effectively and having fun
by watching the ldquoBend it Like
Bekhamrdquo movie During these three
days I enjoyed answering studentsrsquo
questions about studying abroad and my
own university experience in the US
Usually teachers are inspired by their
studentsrsquo active learning and like a
teacher I was so happy to see studentsrsquo
interests and active participation in all
activitiesrdquo
On May 29 2009 over 40 US Government-sponsored
alumni including alumni of the Global UGRAD FLEX
and TEA programs as well as Global UGRAD finalists
and other university students volunteered at the ldquoLetrsquosKeep the World Cleanrdquo service event in Kayrakkum The
purpose of the event was to raise the awareness among
alumni about environment protection and make alumni
contribute by cleaning the lakeshore The service was
organized by IREX Tajikistan in the framework of the
UGRAD and Muskie alumni programming with
cooperation of Youth Group for Protection of the
Environment (YGPE)
Letrsquos Keep the World Clean
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 16
Join State Alumni Your Global Community for alumni of
State Department exchange programs
Who are Alumni ndash Your Global Community
Alumni are past participants of US government-sponsored exchange programs With more
than 1000000 alumni worldwide State Alumni include world leaders achievers and
influencers Among this global community are 47 Nobel Laureates and over 300 chiefs of state
or heads of government They are politicians CEOs teachers authors artists and most
importantly you As an alumnusa of a State Department-funded exchange program you are
part of a global community of the best and brightest Build upon your exchange experience to
advance your goals your community and our world
State Alumni Opportunities and resources for you to connect with other alumni
middot Hundreds of grant job and event postings
middot Over 20000 free titles in the online research center
middot Access to apply for over $33 billion in funding opportunities
middot News about alumni projects alumni success stories
middot Participate in QampA Live discussions with experts
middot Share your reflections or research publications and join discussion forums
middot Find fellow alumni to network with others in your field or your region
middot Search for resumes or add your own to the global community
Continue the exchange as alumni
middot Be active in your local alumni community
middot Join State Alumni (httpsalumnistategov) and the international social network
ldquoExchanges Connectrdquo httpconnectstategov
middot Discover meet share learn grow and achieve
US Embassy DushanbeWeb httpdushanbeusembassygov
httprussiandushanbeusembassygov
bullDo you want to study in the United State
bullWant to learn more about these exchange programs at the US Embassy
Sign up for the mailing list from the Public Diplomacy section of the US Embassy Dushanbe to
find out about these programs and more Simply send a blank e-mail message to
usembassydushanbeprograms-subscribeyahoogroupscom
Educational Advising CenterAmerican Councils for International Education ACTRACCELS Dushanbe
734003 86 Tolstoy Street Tajikistan
To subscribe to the Education USA Weekly Update on scholarships and fellowships distribution list please
send your request to EducationUSAamericancouncils-tjorg
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 17
Sponsored jointly by a US embassy and a host country organization an American Corner
serves as an information outpost similar to a public library The multi-media book and
periodical collections are open and accessible Where possible associated reading or meeting
rooms are made available to host program events and activities (ie author readings speaker
programs films workshops meetings and exhibits) The fundamental function of the American
Corner is to make information about the United States available to foreign publics at large
American Corner consists of a collection of books in English from and about the United States
The book collection may include reference titles information products from the State
Department Office of International Information Programs works of fiction business and
government publications English Language Learning materials American Corners also provide
access to US information through access to the Internet audio and video products CDs and
CD-ROMS The Corners are staffed by host institution personnel
There are three American Corners currently functioning in Tajikistan in Dushanbe Khujand
and Kulob and two more to be opened soon in Khorog and Qurghon-Teppa
American Corners Contact Information
Dushanbe American Corner Qurghon-Teppa American Corner
Central Scientific Library Sworde-Teppa Center
Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan 25 Vahdat Street
33 Rudaki Avenue Tel (992) (3222) 29528
Tel (992) (37) 2275526 E-mail acqurghon_teppayahoocom
E-mail acdushanbemailru
Khujand American Corner Khorog American Corner
Asiri Public Library Educational Center
1 Lenin Street 1 Azizbek Street
Tel (992) (342) 260313 Tel (992) (3522) 22299
E-mail ackhujandramblerru E-mail ackhorogyahoocom
Kulob American Corner
Kulob Branch Technological University
Borbad Street 9th microregion
Tel (992) 918 57 92 25
E-mail ackulobyahoocom
American Corners Tajikistan
American Corners are partnerships between the Public Affairs
sections of United States Embassies and host institutions
They provide access to current and reliable information from
and about the United States via book collections the Internet
and through local programming to the general public overseas
or abroad
Issue No4 June 2009
Embassy Upcoming Events
Page 3
August 16 2009 ldquoYouth Enrichment Camps ndash A Leadership Opportunity for FLEX
Alumni Presented by American Camp Counselors Middy
Tilghman and Andrew McEwan
Location 86 Tolstoy Street ACCELS Office
Time 1600 pm
Hairiniso Elmuradova alumnus of the
USAID Community Connections program at
the office discussing her new project for
Construction of the Child Centre Photo
ACCELS
US Tour Initiates Childrsquos Rights Centre
Page 4
Issue No4 June 2009
she visited in Iowa while on the USAID
Community Connections program for
Women Leaders ldquoI thought it will be great
to have something like that center in
Tajikistan I wanted to create a place where
children would receive the support they
needrdquo After her return Hairinisso began
working intensively to bring her ideas into
reality and she founded the Shodi
(ldquohappinessrdquo) organization Currently the
center provides various services to children
who are in need of medical psychological
recreational and professional skill
development The center also works to
raise awareness in the general population of
childrensrsquo issues
Moreover Hairinisso achieved what few
local NGO leaders can she obtained land
from local authorities to build a new center
to accommodate the increasing needs of the
Bokhtar children who enjoy its services
Now her organization is in possession of
the land and waiting for the construction of
a new building
ldquoWe need to work with marginalized
children to arrive at a point where they feel
cared for by the community currently
many of the children who visit our centre
feel they can benefit society by selling their
handicrafts and enjoy what the community
of Bokhtar and other international
organizations have to offerrdquo With this in
mind Hairinisso continues to actively
engage with the community and with other
organizations that provide support to
children She is currently seeking support
to construct a new building for the center
ldquoI wanted to create a place where children
would receive the support they needrdquo
Two years ago Hairinisso Elmurodova would
never have dreamed of being director of a
childrsquos rights center focusing on the support
of orphaned disabled and impoverished
children from families of Tajikistanrsquos Bokhtar
district A former trainer for a public
association promoting rights of women in
Bokhtar she decided to open a Center for
Children after her USAID supported trip to
United States
Hairinisorsquos center is a prototype of the
American resource center for children that
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 5
Access Students Engage and Charm
Ambassador Jacobson
On June 25 2009 40 Access Microscholarship students and four teachers met Ambassador Jacobson
in the Information Resource Center to talk about USG exchange programs for students and the
Ambassadors career
Ambassador Jacobson spent 45 minutes with Access Micro-scholarship students and teachers from
the Operation Mercy organization The Ambassador conducted the exchanges in English Russian
and Tajik which delighted the students and put them at ease They asked about the Ambassadors
career the life of a diplomat and how they could get to the US to study This was the junior-high
age studentsrsquo first visit to the embassy They had a wonderful conversation with the Ambassador and
all participants were left with a very positive impression Although they had completed only one year
of after-school English study they introduced themselves and conducted most of the discussion in
English The IRC Coordinator made a brief introduction on the use of the IRC and distributed to
them IIP publications like the Education in US the brochure on the President Barak Obama a
brochure on ldquoBeing Muslim in Americardquo English Teaching Forum journal US A map with facts in
brief and Info US CDs
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 6
Brenda Flanagan Author Civil Rights Advocate
Flanagan spoke about the evolution of civil rights in the United States highlighting significant
events that led to improvements in equal rights for Black Americans such as Brown vs the Board
of Education Septima Clarks literacy campaigns to ensure Blacks could vote and Collette Colvin
refusing to relinquish her seat in the front of the bus She spoke about how the election of President
Obama was made possible by sacrifices and struggles of these and other civil rights advocates She
urged the audiences to continue the struggle against ldquoinstitutionalized racismrdquo that still affects US
citizens today Sharing the pain of prejudice sometimes brought tears to her eyes as when she spoke
of Emmett Till murdered on suspicion of whistling at a white woman or when she herself was shot
at after moving into a white neighborhood in Texarkana
Flanagan emphasized that fair and democratic government is an ongoing process and civil rights in
the US will continue even after the election of an African American president She communicated a
crucial message to inspire civil leaders in Tajikistan to advocate for rights codified in law but not
defended in practice
Brenda Flanagan also met with UGS programs alumni at the ldquoPamirrdquo restaurant Alumni were
asking a lot of questions about Flanaganrsquos published collection of short stories ldquoIn Praise of Island
Women and Other Crimesrdquo
Brenda Flanagan a professor of English and award winning writer from North Carolina
performed her short stories for audiences in Dushanbe Khujand and Qurghon-Teppa
The cultural event helped reach a broad Tajik audience from academia media business and cultural
circles high school and university students Through stories about Flanagans unique life history
and empathy with the poor and elderly Flanagan inspired members of the audience to volunteer for
civil society activities to help the disadvantaged
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 7
The US Embassy Presents David Korevaar Pianist
After being introduced by Ambassador Tracey Jacobson
Boulder Colorado-based pianist David Korevaar
performed for a capacity crowd at the Kamoli Khujandi
Theater in Khujand His repertoire included American
works as well as pieces by Tajik composers Zaydullo and
Tolib Shahidi Following the concert Korevaar signed
autographs and took pictures with fans This activity
promoted American music and culture in a remote region
of Tajikistan that rarely welcomes foreign visitors
Cultural Envoy David Korevaar
performed before a packed house at the
Tajik Conservatory Korevaarrsquos
performance was part of the
International Piano Festival which
featured pianists from Russia
Kazakhstan Kyrgyzstan Tajikistan
and the United States At his solo
concert Korevaar played pieces by
Aaron Copland and Franz Liszt as well
as compositions by Tajik composers
Ziyodullo and Tolib Shahidi The
pianist talked about music and
American culture with visitors to the
Dushanbe American Corner
Korevaar held master classes in five
music schools and conservatories in
Dushanbe and Khujand Students
played pieces for him so that he could
assess their techniques and skills
At Dushanbersquos American Corner Korevaar discusses music and American culture with patrons
During his 10-day visit to Tajikistan Korevaar gave concerts in Dushanbe and Khujand and
taught master classes in five music schools and conservatories in Dushanbe and Khujand This
was Korevaarrsquos second Tajik sojourn he first visited Tajikistan in April 2008
USG and Soros Alumni Discuss Economic Crisis with
President Rahmons Senior Economic Advisors
Alumni of a Community Connection Loan Management June 2009 program in Bluefield West
Virginia returned and developed the program ldquoEducational Training for Girls in Istaravshanrdquo
The main aim of this program is to increase opportunities for 12 girls from Istravshan to pursue
higher education by preparing them for graduate study through additional to school training in
English and leadership The long term goal of the program is to encourage target girls to become
leaders in their communities
The training for girls aims at promoting volunteerism among CC alumni by their active
participation in the program as invited speakers and monitors of the program implementation but
also aims at transferring the attitude to beneficiaries of the program to develop a volunteering
concept in local communities
Loan management alumni had a chance to participate in volunteer activities and learn the concept of
volunteerism in the United States Participants observed how Americans contribute to their
communities and help shape the society they live in On return to Tajikistan the alumni also
founded the Community Connections Alumni Association a nongovernmental organization
through which they plan to implement various activities whose ultimate goal is to benefit the local
communities they represent Irrespective of a wide spectrum of professional fields which CC alumni
represent the CC Alumni Association will work on strengthening the concept of volunteerism in
Tajikistan
Community Connections Alumni
Launch Association and Programs after Return from US
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 8
Nematjon Buriev and Farrukh Hamraliev senior adviser to President Rahmon briefed USG and
Soros alumni working in the economic and financial sectors on Government of Tajikistan efforts
to mitigate the crisis in Tajikistan at a roundtable discussion June 23 2009
The government economic policy experts and alumni with global perspectives and expertise
shared their assessments of the scope and duration of the global economic crisis on Tajikistans
fragile economy The advisors expressed appreciation for the experience of the alumni The
roundtable helped forge relationships between people with knowledge that can affect the countrys
economic future
On July 2 2009 the Association of Fulbright Alumni and Informational Center on Human
Rights organized a virtual art exhibition at the American Corner in Dushanbe The exhibition
was dedicated to Independence Day of the US Alla Aslitdinova Director of Scientific Library
of Academy of Science and Fulbright alumna 2004-2005 made a presentation about American
history and the Memorial Day Holiday The students were very interested and asked many
questions Fulbright alumni also made presentations about USG educational exchange programs
and encourage students to participate in those programs
A Virtual Art Exhibition
From June 24-26 Malika Khakimova rsquo04
Farangis Nozimzoda rsquo07 and Kadamsho
Usufbekov rsquo05 participated in the ldquoTogether
We Carerdquo project organized by Kazakhstan
FLEX alumni in Almaty The purpose of the
project was to strengthen relationships
between the alumni community of the
participant countries and together solve
problems of financial world crises and border
related issues These issues were topics of the
debate tournament and round table
discussion which were held on the second day
of event Alumni plan to implement
solutions offered though the round tables
discussion and debate in their further work
within their own communities
ldquoTogether We Carerdquo Debate Tournament in Almaty
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 9
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 10
Fifteen FLEX alumni volunteered to help the US Embassy host more than 140 children from the
Tursun-Zade Orphanage for a full day of fun on May 10 Games and activities included football
basketball swimming and volleyball The children also learned traditional American games such as
hopscotch and ldquoSlip N Sliderdquo flew kites and made art projects The event included a full lunch
which was partially sponsored by the Sega Fredo and Morning Star Cafes A live band performed
traditional Tajik music in the afternoon The children brought their favorite toys back to the
orphanage
Embassy Hosts Day of Fun and Games for More Than
140 Orphans
On June 1 group of Khujand FLEX alumni together with initiative group ldquoOur Kidsrdquo visited the
orphanage in the city of Chkalovsk The event was divided into three parts The first part
consisted of introducing alumni to orphans and their teachers Alumni talked about the FLEX
program and motivated children to study English and participate in the FLEX tests After the
introduction children were divided in to three groups o play different games Alumni played
basketball tennis rockets American football and other American games with the children
American football was the most popular sport because it was something new for them FLEX
alumnus Mukhtor Soliev rsquo07 presented to the children his own football which he brought from
the US as a memento from the FLEX community By the end of the games participants of the
winning teams were awarded with presents The second part of the event took place indoors
Alumni showed pa resentation about the environment and had a session with children about
keeping the environment clean Afterward the session alumni organized mini coffee- break for
the children The third part of the event consisted of a poetry reading contest in which all
children participated They read poems in Tajik Russian and English languages and sang songs
At the end of the event alumni distributed clothes which they earlier collected through a
clothing drive
International Childrenrsquos Day Celebration With Orphans Chkalovsk
Farewell Party for Anne Benjaminson Cultural Affairs Officer
Poster ldquoWe Will Miss You Annerdquo During the meeting the alumni wished her the best of luck in
her further work shared their thoughts and their future plans After two years of acquaintance
the alumni thanked Anne for her wonderful cooperation with FLEX alumni In the end alumni
presented a memorable t-shirt and delicious cake which alumni specially ordered for Anne Ms
Benjaminson was amazed by the memorable t-shirt and sincerely thanked alumni for their work
For International Childrenrsquos Day Farangis
Nozimzoda lsquo07 Zurab Dodkhudoev lsquo07 and
Abdulvakob Hofizi lsquo09 visited the Global
Connections and Exchange program students
from school No8 for the deaf children in
Dushanbe on June 2 Especially for this event
alumni prepared variety of interesting
activities which were aimed to learn origami
and develop personal skills The event
consisted of three parts the first part
included introduction the second part
consisted of making photo portieres from the
magazines and during the third part of the
event children were learning origami ndash the
traditional Japanese art of paper folding
Children found these activities interesting
and were enthusiastic about implementing
them The event concluded with taking a lot
of pictures
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 11
On June 5 FLEX Alumni organized a
farewell party dedicated to Anne
Benjaminson ndash US Embassy Cultural
Affairs Officer Anne worked as the
Cultural Affairs Officer in Tajikistan for
two years and during this time
established warm and close relationships
with FLEX alumni For her support of all
FLEX alumni activities a group of
FLEX alumni made special preparations
for the farewell meeting They decorated
the conference hall in the American
Councils office with a big colored
ldquoSmileldquo International Childrenrsquos Day Celebration with
the Children from the Deaf School
ldquoRight To Happinessrdquo Project with Disabled Children and
Children With Poor Eyesight
Within the framework of the GYSD
FLEX alumni and Tajikistan
Assosiation of the Blind Children
organized a sale exhibition of hand made
objects mosaics and paintings of the
children with physical and mental
disabilities and poor eysight in
Molodejniy theater on April 26 This
event was supported by the US
Embassy which provided financial aid to
rent the theater The rest of the money
neccessary for the posters childrenrsquos
transportation and small gifts for
participants had been previously raised
by alumni On the day of the event
Kadamsho Usufbekov sbquo05 Shoira
Pulatova sbquo08 Zurab Dodkhudoev sbquo07 and
Farangis Nozizmoda sbquo07 early in the
morning got together in the hall of
Molodejniy theater to help decorators
from bdquoFormula Schastyardquo ndash decoration
agency who kindly consented to
decorate the Exibition and Concert halls
for free
The sale exhibition started at 10 am FLEX
alumni stayed near every table and answered
questions of the visitors After the exibition
alumni performed a concert with the
participation of the children with physical
and mental disabilities and poor eyesight
and what was suprise ndash Tajik Pop Stars For
their performance the Tajik Pop Stars did
not charge the alumni any money
The concert was led by two boys with poor
eyesight During the concert talented
children with disabilities sang songs
performed dances and read poems In
concert participated such Tajik Pop Stars as
Takhmina Niyozava and dance band ldquoWestrdquo
The children were very happy
Over all more than 150 school children
university students foreigners from
different NGOrsquos and other individuals
visited the exhibition and the concert This
event was highlighted on radio BBC Iran
and newsletter ldquoJumhuriyatrdquo
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 12
Issue No4 June 2009
On May 4 2009 IREX Tajikistan
organized a Grant Writing Seminar for
the Alumni Small Grant Program
(ASGP) and Project Smile (PS) at the
Tahvid Hotel Conference Hall in
Khujand The seminar was attended by
approximately 20 ECA alumni of
programs including UGRAD TEA
FLEX and Global Connections and
Exchange Education Programs Division
Program Coordinator Bakhtiyor Isoev
facilitated the
Page 13
seminar which aimed to familiarize alumni with the basic principles of designing a project and
writing successful grant applications for the upcoming October rounds of the Alumni Small Grant
Program (ASGP) and Project Smile (PS)
Alumni learned how to better identify and approach potential donors as well as general techniques
for writing quality grant applications Alumni also had a chance to share their past experiences
applying to grant programs with other participants and discussed lessons learned in the areas of
needs assessments cost-sharing and in-kind contributions sustainability and multiplier effect
issues budget and implementation feasibility goal and objective development and many more
All attendees received certificates of achievement and IREX staff encouraged alumni to apply for
upcoming rounds of ASGP and PS applications At the end everyone left the seminar with at least
five project ideas and newly equipped grant writing skills
Grant Writing Seminar
Public Speaking Skills Workshop
On May 27 2009 IREX
Tajikistan organized a Public
Speaking Skills Training in the
Dusti Amirkhon Business
Restaurantrsquos Conference Hall The
workshop was attended by
approximately 20 ECA alumni
living and studying in Sugd
Region These alumni include
UGRAD TEA FLEX and Global
Connections alumni as well as
2009-2010 Global UGRAD
finalists The workshop was
conducted in English by IREX
Tajikistan Education Programs
Division Program Coordinator
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 14
Bakhtiyor Isoev The goal of the workshop was to familiarize alumni with the basic principles of
public speaking and equip them with the skills necessary to feel confident while speaking in front
of people
After few energizing and teambuilding activities the first part of the workshop was dedicated to
getting to know what communication communication genres and the communication process are
Next all attendees were instructed to come up with and generate words on flipcharts that make
them think about public speaking Having played the game alumni presented their understanding
of public speaking The training continued with interactive games that helped equip participants
with the necessary skills to be better public speakers use and conduct PowerPoint presentations in
a more productive manner Afterwards participants were split into three groups to come up with
topics and make a short presentation about their idea The workshop ended with IREX Tajikistan
staff handing certificates of achievement all participants
UGrad alumna Masuda Sobitova visited the American Corner in Khujand and showed patrons a
Power Point presentation of her stay in the United States researching English teaching curriculum
development
Sobitova inspired the students by sharing her incredible experience in the United States studying at
Graceland University in Lamoni Iowa her internship and cultural presentations cooking Tajik
food and traveling to other states She introduced America to the audience in her presentation by
sharing very beautiful photos postcards presents and souvenirs After Sobitovas presentation the
students were eager to learn more about the UGrad program and asked lots of questions on how to
get better prepared and apply for such programs Sobitova responded to their questions applying
her considerable experience gained as a participant of the UGrad program
UGRAD Alumna Masuda Sobitova
Shares Her US Experience
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 15
UGRAD 2007-2008 alumna Mukhlisa Parpieva organized
a three-day educational training for her university
classmates at the student dorm of Khujand State
University May 20th through May 22nd The training
allowed students to learn about US Education System and
the Global UGRAD Program and its application process
On the second day participants has watched a movie in
English and have discussed it afterwards in English
UGRAD alumni Mahfuza Sobitova (UGRAD 2007-2008)
and Masuda Sobitova (UGRAD 2008-2009) provided their
support in organizing these activities in Khujand A third-
year student participant commented ldquoThis training has been
a good lesson for me and gave a lot of information about
education system of the US and study opportunities abroad
UGRAD Alumna Organizes Three-Day Educational Training
I was so glad I could participate in this
training I learned a lot Moreover I
enjoyed the Movie Night which was
fun and informative Thanks to the
IREX for supporting the events which
serve to provide students with very
useful informationrdquo
Mukhlisa noted in her report to
IREX Tajikistan Actually the Three-
Day Educational Training was the best
event I have ever conducted It was the
process of learning about opportunities
sharing ideas finding out about the
successful application that is how to fill
applications effectively and having fun
by watching the ldquoBend it Like
Bekhamrdquo movie During these three
days I enjoyed answering studentsrsquo
questions about studying abroad and my
own university experience in the US
Usually teachers are inspired by their
studentsrsquo active learning and like a
teacher I was so happy to see studentsrsquo
interests and active participation in all
activitiesrdquo
On May 29 2009 over 40 US Government-sponsored
alumni including alumni of the Global UGRAD FLEX
and TEA programs as well as Global UGRAD finalists
and other university students volunteered at the ldquoLetrsquosKeep the World Cleanrdquo service event in Kayrakkum The
purpose of the event was to raise the awareness among
alumni about environment protection and make alumni
contribute by cleaning the lakeshore The service was
organized by IREX Tajikistan in the framework of the
UGRAD and Muskie alumni programming with
cooperation of Youth Group for Protection of the
Environment (YGPE)
Letrsquos Keep the World Clean
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 16
Join State Alumni Your Global Community for alumni of
State Department exchange programs
Who are Alumni ndash Your Global Community
Alumni are past participants of US government-sponsored exchange programs With more
than 1000000 alumni worldwide State Alumni include world leaders achievers and
influencers Among this global community are 47 Nobel Laureates and over 300 chiefs of state
or heads of government They are politicians CEOs teachers authors artists and most
importantly you As an alumnusa of a State Department-funded exchange program you are
part of a global community of the best and brightest Build upon your exchange experience to
advance your goals your community and our world
State Alumni Opportunities and resources for you to connect with other alumni
middot Hundreds of grant job and event postings
middot Over 20000 free titles in the online research center
middot Access to apply for over $33 billion in funding opportunities
middot News about alumni projects alumni success stories
middot Participate in QampA Live discussions with experts
middot Share your reflections or research publications and join discussion forums
middot Find fellow alumni to network with others in your field or your region
middot Search for resumes or add your own to the global community
Continue the exchange as alumni
middot Be active in your local alumni community
middot Join State Alumni (httpsalumnistategov) and the international social network
ldquoExchanges Connectrdquo httpconnectstategov
middot Discover meet share learn grow and achieve
US Embassy DushanbeWeb httpdushanbeusembassygov
httprussiandushanbeusembassygov
bullDo you want to study in the United State
bullWant to learn more about these exchange programs at the US Embassy
Sign up for the mailing list from the Public Diplomacy section of the US Embassy Dushanbe to
find out about these programs and more Simply send a blank e-mail message to
usembassydushanbeprograms-subscribeyahoogroupscom
Educational Advising CenterAmerican Councils for International Education ACTRACCELS Dushanbe
734003 86 Tolstoy Street Tajikistan
To subscribe to the Education USA Weekly Update on scholarships and fellowships distribution list please
send your request to EducationUSAamericancouncils-tjorg
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 17
Sponsored jointly by a US embassy and a host country organization an American Corner
serves as an information outpost similar to a public library The multi-media book and
periodical collections are open and accessible Where possible associated reading or meeting
rooms are made available to host program events and activities (ie author readings speaker
programs films workshops meetings and exhibits) The fundamental function of the American
Corner is to make information about the United States available to foreign publics at large
American Corner consists of a collection of books in English from and about the United States
The book collection may include reference titles information products from the State
Department Office of International Information Programs works of fiction business and
government publications English Language Learning materials American Corners also provide
access to US information through access to the Internet audio and video products CDs and
CD-ROMS The Corners are staffed by host institution personnel
There are three American Corners currently functioning in Tajikistan in Dushanbe Khujand
and Kulob and two more to be opened soon in Khorog and Qurghon-Teppa
American Corners Contact Information
Dushanbe American Corner Qurghon-Teppa American Corner
Central Scientific Library Sworde-Teppa Center
Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan 25 Vahdat Street
33 Rudaki Avenue Tel (992) (3222) 29528
Tel (992) (37) 2275526 E-mail acqurghon_teppayahoocom
E-mail acdushanbemailru
Khujand American Corner Khorog American Corner
Asiri Public Library Educational Center
1 Lenin Street 1 Azizbek Street
Tel (992) (342) 260313 Tel (992) (3522) 22299
E-mail ackhujandramblerru E-mail ackhorogyahoocom
Kulob American Corner
Kulob Branch Technological University
Borbad Street 9th microregion
Tel (992) 918 57 92 25
E-mail ackulobyahoocom
American Corners Tajikistan
American Corners are partnerships between the Public Affairs
sections of United States Embassies and host institutions
They provide access to current and reliable information from
and about the United States via book collections the Internet
and through local programming to the general public overseas
or abroad
Hairiniso Elmuradova alumnus of the
USAID Community Connections program at
the office discussing her new project for
Construction of the Child Centre Photo
ACCELS
US Tour Initiates Childrsquos Rights Centre
Page 4
Issue No4 June 2009
she visited in Iowa while on the USAID
Community Connections program for
Women Leaders ldquoI thought it will be great
to have something like that center in
Tajikistan I wanted to create a place where
children would receive the support they
needrdquo After her return Hairinisso began
working intensively to bring her ideas into
reality and she founded the Shodi
(ldquohappinessrdquo) organization Currently the
center provides various services to children
who are in need of medical psychological
recreational and professional skill
development The center also works to
raise awareness in the general population of
childrensrsquo issues
Moreover Hairinisso achieved what few
local NGO leaders can she obtained land
from local authorities to build a new center
to accommodate the increasing needs of the
Bokhtar children who enjoy its services
Now her organization is in possession of
the land and waiting for the construction of
a new building
ldquoWe need to work with marginalized
children to arrive at a point where they feel
cared for by the community currently
many of the children who visit our centre
feel they can benefit society by selling their
handicrafts and enjoy what the community
of Bokhtar and other international
organizations have to offerrdquo With this in
mind Hairinisso continues to actively
engage with the community and with other
organizations that provide support to
children She is currently seeking support
to construct a new building for the center
ldquoI wanted to create a place where children
would receive the support they needrdquo
Two years ago Hairinisso Elmurodova would
never have dreamed of being director of a
childrsquos rights center focusing on the support
of orphaned disabled and impoverished
children from families of Tajikistanrsquos Bokhtar
district A former trainer for a public
association promoting rights of women in
Bokhtar she decided to open a Center for
Children after her USAID supported trip to
United States
Hairinisorsquos center is a prototype of the
American resource center for children that
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 5
Access Students Engage and Charm
Ambassador Jacobson
On June 25 2009 40 Access Microscholarship students and four teachers met Ambassador Jacobson
in the Information Resource Center to talk about USG exchange programs for students and the
Ambassadors career
Ambassador Jacobson spent 45 minutes with Access Micro-scholarship students and teachers from
the Operation Mercy organization The Ambassador conducted the exchanges in English Russian
and Tajik which delighted the students and put them at ease They asked about the Ambassadors
career the life of a diplomat and how they could get to the US to study This was the junior-high
age studentsrsquo first visit to the embassy They had a wonderful conversation with the Ambassador and
all participants were left with a very positive impression Although they had completed only one year
of after-school English study they introduced themselves and conducted most of the discussion in
English The IRC Coordinator made a brief introduction on the use of the IRC and distributed to
them IIP publications like the Education in US the brochure on the President Barak Obama a
brochure on ldquoBeing Muslim in Americardquo English Teaching Forum journal US A map with facts in
brief and Info US CDs
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 6
Brenda Flanagan Author Civil Rights Advocate
Flanagan spoke about the evolution of civil rights in the United States highlighting significant
events that led to improvements in equal rights for Black Americans such as Brown vs the Board
of Education Septima Clarks literacy campaigns to ensure Blacks could vote and Collette Colvin
refusing to relinquish her seat in the front of the bus She spoke about how the election of President
Obama was made possible by sacrifices and struggles of these and other civil rights advocates She
urged the audiences to continue the struggle against ldquoinstitutionalized racismrdquo that still affects US
citizens today Sharing the pain of prejudice sometimes brought tears to her eyes as when she spoke
of Emmett Till murdered on suspicion of whistling at a white woman or when she herself was shot
at after moving into a white neighborhood in Texarkana
Flanagan emphasized that fair and democratic government is an ongoing process and civil rights in
the US will continue even after the election of an African American president She communicated a
crucial message to inspire civil leaders in Tajikistan to advocate for rights codified in law but not
defended in practice
Brenda Flanagan also met with UGS programs alumni at the ldquoPamirrdquo restaurant Alumni were
asking a lot of questions about Flanaganrsquos published collection of short stories ldquoIn Praise of Island
Women and Other Crimesrdquo
Brenda Flanagan a professor of English and award winning writer from North Carolina
performed her short stories for audiences in Dushanbe Khujand and Qurghon-Teppa
The cultural event helped reach a broad Tajik audience from academia media business and cultural
circles high school and university students Through stories about Flanagans unique life history
and empathy with the poor and elderly Flanagan inspired members of the audience to volunteer for
civil society activities to help the disadvantaged
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 7
The US Embassy Presents David Korevaar Pianist
After being introduced by Ambassador Tracey Jacobson
Boulder Colorado-based pianist David Korevaar
performed for a capacity crowd at the Kamoli Khujandi
Theater in Khujand His repertoire included American
works as well as pieces by Tajik composers Zaydullo and
Tolib Shahidi Following the concert Korevaar signed
autographs and took pictures with fans This activity
promoted American music and culture in a remote region
of Tajikistan that rarely welcomes foreign visitors
Cultural Envoy David Korevaar
performed before a packed house at the
Tajik Conservatory Korevaarrsquos
performance was part of the
International Piano Festival which
featured pianists from Russia
Kazakhstan Kyrgyzstan Tajikistan
and the United States At his solo
concert Korevaar played pieces by
Aaron Copland and Franz Liszt as well
as compositions by Tajik composers
Ziyodullo and Tolib Shahidi The
pianist talked about music and
American culture with visitors to the
Dushanbe American Corner
Korevaar held master classes in five
music schools and conservatories in
Dushanbe and Khujand Students
played pieces for him so that he could
assess their techniques and skills
At Dushanbersquos American Corner Korevaar discusses music and American culture with patrons
During his 10-day visit to Tajikistan Korevaar gave concerts in Dushanbe and Khujand and
taught master classes in five music schools and conservatories in Dushanbe and Khujand This
was Korevaarrsquos second Tajik sojourn he first visited Tajikistan in April 2008
USG and Soros Alumni Discuss Economic Crisis with
President Rahmons Senior Economic Advisors
Alumni of a Community Connection Loan Management June 2009 program in Bluefield West
Virginia returned and developed the program ldquoEducational Training for Girls in Istaravshanrdquo
The main aim of this program is to increase opportunities for 12 girls from Istravshan to pursue
higher education by preparing them for graduate study through additional to school training in
English and leadership The long term goal of the program is to encourage target girls to become
leaders in their communities
The training for girls aims at promoting volunteerism among CC alumni by their active
participation in the program as invited speakers and monitors of the program implementation but
also aims at transferring the attitude to beneficiaries of the program to develop a volunteering
concept in local communities
Loan management alumni had a chance to participate in volunteer activities and learn the concept of
volunteerism in the United States Participants observed how Americans contribute to their
communities and help shape the society they live in On return to Tajikistan the alumni also
founded the Community Connections Alumni Association a nongovernmental organization
through which they plan to implement various activities whose ultimate goal is to benefit the local
communities they represent Irrespective of a wide spectrum of professional fields which CC alumni
represent the CC Alumni Association will work on strengthening the concept of volunteerism in
Tajikistan
Community Connections Alumni
Launch Association and Programs after Return from US
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 8
Nematjon Buriev and Farrukh Hamraliev senior adviser to President Rahmon briefed USG and
Soros alumni working in the economic and financial sectors on Government of Tajikistan efforts
to mitigate the crisis in Tajikistan at a roundtable discussion June 23 2009
The government economic policy experts and alumni with global perspectives and expertise
shared their assessments of the scope and duration of the global economic crisis on Tajikistans
fragile economy The advisors expressed appreciation for the experience of the alumni The
roundtable helped forge relationships between people with knowledge that can affect the countrys
economic future
On July 2 2009 the Association of Fulbright Alumni and Informational Center on Human
Rights organized a virtual art exhibition at the American Corner in Dushanbe The exhibition
was dedicated to Independence Day of the US Alla Aslitdinova Director of Scientific Library
of Academy of Science and Fulbright alumna 2004-2005 made a presentation about American
history and the Memorial Day Holiday The students were very interested and asked many
questions Fulbright alumni also made presentations about USG educational exchange programs
and encourage students to participate in those programs
A Virtual Art Exhibition
From June 24-26 Malika Khakimova rsquo04
Farangis Nozimzoda rsquo07 and Kadamsho
Usufbekov rsquo05 participated in the ldquoTogether
We Carerdquo project organized by Kazakhstan
FLEX alumni in Almaty The purpose of the
project was to strengthen relationships
between the alumni community of the
participant countries and together solve
problems of financial world crises and border
related issues These issues were topics of the
debate tournament and round table
discussion which were held on the second day
of event Alumni plan to implement
solutions offered though the round tables
discussion and debate in their further work
within their own communities
ldquoTogether We Carerdquo Debate Tournament in Almaty
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 9
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 10
Fifteen FLEX alumni volunteered to help the US Embassy host more than 140 children from the
Tursun-Zade Orphanage for a full day of fun on May 10 Games and activities included football
basketball swimming and volleyball The children also learned traditional American games such as
hopscotch and ldquoSlip N Sliderdquo flew kites and made art projects The event included a full lunch
which was partially sponsored by the Sega Fredo and Morning Star Cafes A live band performed
traditional Tajik music in the afternoon The children brought their favorite toys back to the
orphanage
Embassy Hosts Day of Fun and Games for More Than
140 Orphans
On June 1 group of Khujand FLEX alumni together with initiative group ldquoOur Kidsrdquo visited the
orphanage in the city of Chkalovsk The event was divided into three parts The first part
consisted of introducing alumni to orphans and their teachers Alumni talked about the FLEX
program and motivated children to study English and participate in the FLEX tests After the
introduction children were divided in to three groups o play different games Alumni played
basketball tennis rockets American football and other American games with the children
American football was the most popular sport because it was something new for them FLEX
alumnus Mukhtor Soliev rsquo07 presented to the children his own football which he brought from
the US as a memento from the FLEX community By the end of the games participants of the
winning teams were awarded with presents The second part of the event took place indoors
Alumni showed pa resentation about the environment and had a session with children about
keeping the environment clean Afterward the session alumni organized mini coffee- break for
the children The third part of the event consisted of a poetry reading contest in which all
children participated They read poems in Tajik Russian and English languages and sang songs
At the end of the event alumni distributed clothes which they earlier collected through a
clothing drive
International Childrenrsquos Day Celebration With Orphans Chkalovsk
Farewell Party for Anne Benjaminson Cultural Affairs Officer
Poster ldquoWe Will Miss You Annerdquo During the meeting the alumni wished her the best of luck in
her further work shared their thoughts and their future plans After two years of acquaintance
the alumni thanked Anne for her wonderful cooperation with FLEX alumni In the end alumni
presented a memorable t-shirt and delicious cake which alumni specially ordered for Anne Ms
Benjaminson was amazed by the memorable t-shirt and sincerely thanked alumni for their work
For International Childrenrsquos Day Farangis
Nozimzoda lsquo07 Zurab Dodkhudoev lsquo07 and
Abdulvakob Hofizi lsquo09 visited the Global
Connections and Exchange program students
from school No8 for the deaf children in
Dushanbe on June 2 Especially for this event
alumni prepared variety of interesting
activities which were aimed to learn origami
and develop personal skills The event
consisted of three parts the first part
included introduction the second part
consisted of making photo portieres from the
magazines and during the third part of the
event children were learning origami ndash the
traditional Japanese art of paper folding
Children found these activities interesting
and were enthusiastic about implementing
them The event concluded with taking a lot
of pictures
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 11
On June 5 FLEX Alumni organized a
farewell party dedicated to Anne
Benjaminson ndash US Embassy Cultural
Affairs Officer Anne worked as the
Cultural Affairs Officer in Tajikistan for
two years and during this time
established warm and close relationships
with FLEX alumni For her support of all
FLEX alumni activities a group of
FLEX alumni made special preparations
for the farewell meeting They decorated
the conference hall in the American
Councils office with a big colored
ldquoSmileldquo International Childrenrsquos Day Celebration with
the Children from the Deaf School
ldquoRight To Happinessrdquo Project with Disabled Children and
Children With Poor Eyesight
Within the framework of the GYSD
FLEX alumni and Tajikistan
Assosiation of the Blind Children
organized a sale exhibition of hand made
objects mosaics and paintings of the
children with physical and mental
disabilities and poor eysight in
Molodejniy theater on April 26 This
event was supported by the US
Embassy which provided financial aid to
rent the theater The rest of the money
neccessary for the posters childrenrsquos
transportation and small gifts for
participants had been previously raised
by alumni On the day of the event
Kadamsho Usufbekov sbquo05 Shoira
Pulatova sbquo08 Zurab Dodkhudoev sbquo07 and
Farangis Nozizmoda sbquo07 early in the
morning got together in the hall of
Molodejniy theater to help decorators
from bdquoFormula Schastyardquo ndash decoration
agency who kindly consented to
decorate the Exibition and Concert halls
for free
The sale exhibition started at 10 am FLEX
alumni stayed near every table and answered
questions of the visitors After the exibition
alumni performed a concert with the
participation of the children with physical
and mental disabilities and poor eyesight
and what was suprise ndash Tajik Pop Stars For
their performance the Tajik Pop Stars did
not charge the alumni any money
The concert was led by two boys with poor
eyesight During the concert talented
children with disabilities sang songs
performed dances and read poems In
concert participated such Tajik Pop Stars as
Takhmina Niyozava and dance band ldquoWestrdquo
The children were very happy
Over all more than 150 school children
university students foreigners from
different NGOrsquos and other individuals
visited the exhibition and the concert This
event was highlighted on radio BBC Iran
and newsletter ldquoJumhuriyatrdquo
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 12
Issue No4 June 2009
On May 4 2009 IREX Tajikistan
organized a Grant Writing Seminar for
the Alumni Small Grant Program
(ASGP) and Project Smile (PS) at the
Tahvid Hotel Conference Hall in
Khujand The seminar was attended by
approximately 20 ECA alumni of
programs including UGRAD TEA
FLEX and Global Connections and
Exchange Education Programs Division
Program Coordinator Bakhtiyor Isoev
facilitated the
Page 13
seminar which aimed to familiarize alumni with the basic principles of designing a project and
writing successful grant applications for the upcoming October rounds of the Alumni Small Grant
Program (ASGP) and Project Smile (PS)
Alumni learned how to better identify and approach potential donors as well as general techniques
for writing quality grant applications Alumni also had a chance to share their past experiences
applying to grant programs with other participants and discussed lessons learned in the areas of
needs assessments cost-sharing and in-kind contributions sustainability and multiplier effect
issues budget and implementation feasibility goal and objective development and many more
All attendees received certificates of achievement and IREX staff encouraged alumni to apply for
upcoming rounds of ASGP and PS applications At the end everyone left the seminar with at least
five project ideas and newly equipped grant writing skills
Grant Writing Seminar
Public Speaking Skills Workshop
On May 27 2009 IREX
Tajikistan organized a Public
Speaking Skills Training in the
Dusti Amirkhon Business
Restaurantrsquos Conference Hall The
workshop was attended by
approximately 20 ECA alumni
living and studying in Sugd
Region These alumni include
UGRAD TEA FLEX and Global
Connections alumni as well as
2009-2010 Global UGRAD
finalists The workshop was
conducted in English by IREX
Tajikistan Education Programs
Division Program Coordinator
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 14
Bakhtiyor Isoev The goal of the workshop was to familiarize alumni with the basic principles of
public speaking and equip them with the skills necessary to feel confident while speaking in front
of people
After few energizing and teambuilding activities the first part of the workshop was dedicated to
getting to know what communication communication genres and the communication process are
Next all attendees were instructed to come up with and generate words on flipcharts that make
them think about public speaking Having played the game alumni presented their understanding
of public speaking The training continued with interactive games that helped equip participants
with the necessary skills to be better public speakers use and conduct PowerPoint presentations in
a more productive manner Afterwards participants were split into three groups to come up with
topics and make a short presentation about their idea The workshop ended with IREX Tajikistan
staff handing certificates of achievement all participants
UGrad alumna Masuda Sobitova visited the American Corner in Khujand and showed patrons a
Power Point presentation of her stay in the United States researching English teaching curriculum
development
Sobitova inspired the students by sharing her incredible experience in the United States studying at
Graceland University in Lamoni Iowa her internship and cultural presentations cooking Tajik
food and traveling to other states She introduced America to the audience in her presentation by
sharing very beautiful photos postcards presents and souvenirs After Sobitovas presentation the
students were eager to learn more about the UGrad program and asked lots of questions on how to
get better prepared and apply for such programs Sobitova responded to their questions applying
her considerable experience gained as a participant of the UGrad program
UGRAD Alumna Masuda Sobitova
Shares Her US Experience
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 15
UGRAD 2007-2008 alumna Mukhlisa Parpieva organized
a three-day educational training for her university
classmates at the student dorm of Khujand State
University May 20th through May 22nd The training
allowed students to learn about US Education System and
the Global UGRAD Program and its application process
On the second day participants has watched a movie in
English and have discussed it afterwards in English
UGRAD alumni Mahfuza Sobitova (UGRAD 2007-2008)
and Masuda Sobitova (UGRAD 2008-2009) provided their
support in organizing these activities in Khujand A third-
year student participant commented ldquoThis training has been
a good lesson for me and gave a lot of information about
education system of the US and study opportunities abroad
UGRAD Alumna Organizes Three-Day Educational Training
I was so glad I could participate in this
training I learned a lot Moreover I
enjoyed the Movie Night which was
fun and informative Thanks to the
IREX for supporting the events which
serve to provide students with very
useful informationrdquo
Mukhlisa noted in her report to
IREX Tajikistan Actually the Three-
Day Educational Training was the best
event I have ever conducted It was the
process of learning about opportunities
sharing ideas finding out about the
successful application that is how to fill
applications effectively and having fun
by watching the ldquoBend it Like
Bekhamrdquo movie During these three
days I enjoyed answering studentsrsquo
questions about studying abroad and my
own university experience in the US
Usually teachers are inspired by their
studentsrsquo active learning and like a
teacher I was so happy to see studentsrsquo
interests and active participation in all
activitiesrdquo
On May 29 2009 over 40 US Government-sponsored
alumni including alumni of the Global UGRAD FLEX
and TEA programs as well as Global UGRAD finalists
and other university students volunteered at the ldquoLetrsquosKeep the World Cleanrdquo service event in Kayrakkum The
purpose of the event was to raise the awareness among
alumni about environment protection and make alumni
contribute by cleaning the lakeshore The service was
organized by IREX Tajikistan in the framework of the
UGRAD and Muskie alumni programming with
cooperation of Youth Group for Protection of the
Environment (YGPE)
Letrsquos Keep the World Clean
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 16
Join State Alumni Your Global Community for alumni of
State Department exchange programs
Who are Alumni ndash Your Global Community
Alumni are past participants of US government-sponsored exchange programs With more
than 1000000 alumni worldwide State Alumni include world leaders achievers and
influencers Among this global community are 47 Nobel Laureates and over 300 chiefs of state
or heads of government They are politicians CEOs teachers authors artists and most
importantly you As an alumnusa of a State Department-funded exchange program you are
part of a global community of the best and brightest Build upon your exchange experience to
advance your goals your community and our world
State Alumni Opportunities and resources for you to connect with other alumni
middot Hundreds of grant job and event postings
middot Over 20000 free titles in the online research center
middot Access to apply for over $33 billion in funding opportunities
middot News about alumni projects alumni success stories
middot Participate in QampA Live discussions with experts
middot Share your reflections or research publications and join discussion forums
middot Find fellow alumni to network with others in your field or your region
middot Search for resumes or add your own to the global community
Continue the exchange as alumni
middot Be active in your local alumni community
middot Join State Alumni (httpsalumnistategov) and the international social network
ldquoExchanges Connectrdquo httpconnectstategov
middot Discover meet share learn grow and achieve
US Embassy DushanbeWeb httpdushanbeusembassygov
httprussiandushanbeusembassygov
bullDo you want to study in the United State
bullWant to learn more about these exchange programs at the US Embassy
Sign up for the mailing list from the Public Diplomacy section of the US Embassy Dushanbe to
find out about these programs and more Simply send a blank e-mail message to
usembassydushanbeprograms-subscribeyahoogroupscom
Educational Advising CenterAmerican Councils for International Education ACTRACCELS Dushanbe
734003 86 Tolstoy Street Tajikistan
To subscribe to the Education USA Weekly Update on scholarships and fellowships distribution list please
send your request to EducationUSAamericancouncils-tjorg
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 17
Sponsored jointly by a US embassy and a host country organization an American Corner
serves as an information outpost similar to a public library The multi-media book and
periodical collections are open and accessible Where possible associated reading or meeting
rooms are made available to host program events and activities (ie author readings speaker
programs films workshops meetings and exhibits) The fundamental function of the American
Corner is to make information about the United States available to foreign publics at large
American Corner consists of a collection of books in English from and about the United States
The book collection may include reference titles information products from the State
Department Office of International Information Programs works of fiction business and
government publications English Language Learning materials American Corners also provide
access to US information through access to the Internet audio and video products CDs and
CD-ROMS The Corners are staffed by host institution personnel
There are three American Corners currently functioning in Tajikistan in Dushanbe Khujand
and Kulob and two more to be opened soon in Khorog and Qurghon-Teppa
American Corners Contact Information
Dushanbe American Corner Qurghon-Teppa American Corner
Central Scientific Library Sworde-Teppa Center
Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan 25 Vahdat Street
33 Rudaki Avenue Tel (992) (3222) 29528
Tel (992) (37) 2275526 E-mail acqurghon_teppayahoocom
E-mail acdushanbemailru
Khujand American Corner Khorog American Corner
Asiri Public Library Educational Center
1 Lenin Street 1 Azizbek Street
Tel (992) (342) 260313 Tel (992) (3522) 22299
E-mail ackhujandramblerru E-mail ackhorogyahoocom
Kulob American Corner
Kulob Branch Technological University
Borbad Street 9th microregion
Tel (992) 918 57 92 25
E-mail ackulobyahoocom
American Corners Tajikistan
American Corners are partnerships between the Public Affairs
sections of United States Embassies and host institutions
They provide access to current and reliable information from
and about the United States via book collections the Internet
and through local programming to the general public overseas
or abroad
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 5
Access Students Engage and Charm
Ambassador Jacobson
On June 25 2009 40 Access Microscholarship students and four teachers met Ambassador Jacobson
in the Information Resource Center to talk about USG exchange programs for students and the
Ambassadors career
Ambassador Jacobson spent 45 minutes with Access Micro-scholarship students and teachers from
the Operation Mercy organization The Ambassador conducted the exchanges in English Russian
and Tajik which delighted the students and put them at ease They asked about the Ambassadors
career the life of a diplomat and how they could get to the US to study This was the junior-high
age studentsrsquo first visit to the embassy They had a wonderful conversation with the Ambassador and
all participants were left with a very positive impression Although they had completed only one year
of after-school English study they introduced themselves and conducted most of the discussion in
English The IRC Coordinator made a brief introduction on the use of the IRC and distributed to
them IIP publications like the Education in US the brochure on the President Barak Obama a
brochure on ldquoBeing Muslim in Americardquo English Teaching Forum journal US A map with facts in
brief and Info US CDs
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 6
Brenda Flanagan Author Civil Rights Advocate
Flanagan spoke about the evolution of civil rights in the United States highlighting significant
events that led to improvements in equal rights for Black Americans such as Brown vs the Board
of Education Septima Clarks literacy campaigns to ensure Blacks could vote and Collette Colvin
refusing to relinquish her seat in the front of the bus She spoke about how the election of President
Obama was made possible by sacrifices and struggles of these and other civil rights advocates She
urged the audiences to continue the struggle against ldquoinstitutionalized racismrdquo that still affects US
citizens today Sharing the pain of prejudice sometimes brought tears to her eyes as when she spoke
of Emmett Till murdered on suspicion of whistling at a white woman or when she herself was shot
at after moving into a white neighborhood in Texarkana
Flanagan emphasized that fair and democratic government is an ongoing process and civil rights in
the US will continue even after the election of an African American president She communicated a
crucial message to inspire civil leaders in Tajikistan to advocate for rights codified in law but not
defended in practice
Brenda Flanagan also met with UGS programs alumni at the ldquoPamirrdquo restaurant Alumni were
asking a lot of questions about Flanaganrsquos published collection of short stories ldquoIn Praise of Island
Women and Other Crimesrdquo
Brenda Flanagan a professor of English and award winning writer from North Carolina
performed her short stories for audiences in Dushanbe Khujand and Qurghon-Teppa
The cultural event helped reach a broad Tajik audience from academia media business and cultural
circles high school and university students Through stories about Flanagans unique life history
and empathy with the poor and elderly Flanagan inspired members of the audience to volunteer for
civil society activities to help the disadvantaged
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 7
The US Embassy Presents David Korevaar Pianist
After being introduced by Ambassador Tracey Jacobson
Boulder Colorado-based pianist David Korevaar
performed for a capacity crowd at the Kamoli Khujandi
Theater in Khujand His repertoire included American
works as well as pieces by Tajik composers Zaydullo and
Tolib Shahidi Following the concert Korevaar signed
autographs and took pictures with fans This activity
promoted American music and culture in a remote region
of Tajikistan that rarely welcomes foreign visitors
Cultural Envoy David Korevaar
performed before a packed house at the
Tajik Conservatory Korevaarrsquos
performance was part of the
International Piano Festival which
featured pianists from Russia
Kazakhstan Kyrgyzstan Tajikistan
and the United States At his solo
concert Korevaar played pieces by
Aaron Copland and Franz Liszt as well
as compositions by Tajik composers
Ziyodullo and Tolib Shahidi The
pianist talked about music and
American culture with visitors to the
Dushanbe American Corner
Korevaar held master classes in five
music schools and conservatories in
Dushanbe and Khujand Students
played pieces for him so that he could
assess their techniques and skills
At Dushanbersquos American Corner Korevaar discusses music and American culture with patrons
During his 10-day visit to Tajikistan Korevaar gave concerts in Dushanbe and Khujand and
taught master classes in five music schools and conservatories in Dushanbe and Khujand This
was Korevaarrsquos second Tajik sojourn he first visited Tajikistan in April 2008
USG and Soros Alumni Discuss Economic Crisis with
President Rahmons Senior Economic Advisors
Alumni of a Community Connection Loan Management June 2009 program in Bluefield West
Virginia returned and developed the program ldquoEducational Training for Girls in Istaravshanrdquo
The main aim of this program is to increase opportunities for 12 girls from Istravshan to pursue
higher education by preparing them for graduate study through additional to school training in
English and leadership The long term goal of the program is to encourage target girls to become
leaders in their communities
The training for girls aims at promoting volunteerism among CC alumni by their active
participation in the program as invited speakers and monitors of the program implementation but
also aims at transferring the attitude to beneficiaries of the program to develop a volunteering
concept in local communities
Loan management alumni had a chance to participate in volunteer activities and learn the concept of
volunteerism in the United States Participants observed how Americans contribute to their
communities and help shape the society they live in On return to Tajikistan the alumni also
founded the Community Connections Alumni Association a nongovernmental organization
through which they plan to implement various activities whose ultimate goal is to benefit the local
communities they represent Irrespective of a wide spectrum of professional fields which CC alumni
represent the CC Alumni Association will work on strengthening the concept of volunteerism in
Tajikistan
Community Connections Alumni
Launch Association and Programs after Return from US
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 8
Nematjon Buriev and Farrukh Hamraliev senior adviser to President Rahmon briefed USG and
Soros alumni working in the economic and financial sectors on Government of Tajikistan efforts
to mitigate the crisis in Tajikistan at a roundtable discussion June 23 2009
The government economic policy experts and alumni with global perspectives and expertise
shared their assessments of the scope and duration of the global economic crisis on Tajikistans
fragile economy The advisors expressed appreciation for the experience of the alumni The
roundtable helped forge relationships between people with knowledge that can affect the countrys
economic future
On July 2 2009 the Association of Fulbright Alumni and Informational Center on Human
Rights organized a virtual art exhibition at the American Corner in Dushanbe The exhibition
was dedicated to Independence Day of the US Alla Aslitdinova Director of Scientific Library
of Academy of Science and Fulbright alumna 2004-2005 made a presentation about American
history and the Memorial Day Holiday The students were very interested and asked many
questions Fulbright alumni also made presentations about USG educational exchange programs
and encourage students to participate in those programs
A Virtual Art Exhibition
From June 24-26 Malika Khakimova rsquo04
Farangis Nozimzoda rsquo07 and Kadamsho
Usufbekov rsquo05 participated in the ldquoTogether
We Carerdquo project organized by Kazakhstan
FLEX alumni in Almaty The purpose of the
project was to strengthen relationships
between the alumni community of the
participant countries and together solve
problems of financial world crises and border
related issues These issues were topics of the
debate tournament and round table
discussion which were held on the second day
of event Alumni plan to implement
solutions offered though the round tables
discussion and debate in their further work
within their own communities
ldquoTogether We Carerdquo Debate Tournament in Almaty
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 9
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 10
Fifteen FLEX alumni volunteered to help the US Embassy host more than 140 children from the
Tursun-Zade Orphanage for a full day of fun on May 10 Games and activities included football
basketball swimming and volleyball The children also learned traditional American games such as
hopscotch and ldquoSlip N Sliderdquo flew kites and made art projects The event included a full lunch
which was partially sponsored by the Sega Fredo and Morning Star Cafes A live band performed
traditional Tajik music in the afternoon The children brought their favorite toys back to the
orphanage
Embassy Hosts Day of Fun and Games for More Than
140 Orphans
On June 1 group of Khujand FLEX alumni together with initiative group ldquoOur Kidsrdquo visited the
orphanage in the city of Chkalovsk The event was divided into three parts The first part
consisted of introducing alumni to orphans and their teachers Alumni talked about the FLEX
program and motivated children to study English and participate in the FLEX tests After the
introduction children were divided in to three groups o play different games Alumni played
basketball tennis rockets American football and other American games with the children
American football was the most popular sport because it was something new for them FLEX
alumnus Mukhtor Soliev rsquo07 presented to the children his own football which he brought from
the US as a memento from the FLEX community By the end of the games participants of the
winning teams were awarded with presents The second part of the event took place indoors
Alumni showed pa resentation about the environment and had a session with children about
keeping the environment clean Afterward the session alumni organized mini coffee- break for
the children The third part of the event consisted of a poetry reading contest in which all
children participated They read poems in Tajik Russian and English languages and sang songs
At the end of the event alumni distributed clothes which they earlier collected through a
clothing drive
International Childrenrsquos Day Celebration With Orphans Chkalovsk
Farewell Party for Anne Benjaminson Cultural Affairs Officer
Poster ldquoWe Will Miss You Annerdquo During the meeting the alumni wished her the best of luck in
her further work shared their thoughts and their future plans After two years of acquaintance
the alumni thanked Anne for her wonderful cooperation with FLEX alumni In the end alumni
presented a memorable t-shirt and delicious cake which alumni specially ordered for Anne Ms
Benjaminson was amazed by the memorable t-shirt and sincerely thanked alumni for their work
For International Childrenrsquos Day Farangis
Nozimzoda lsquo07 Zurab Dodkhudoev lsquo07 and
Abdulvakob Hofizi lsquo09 visited the Global
Connections and Exchange program students
from school No8 for the deaf children in
Dushanbe on June 2 Especially for this event
alumni prepared variety of interesting
activities which were aimed to learn origami
and develop personal skills The event
consisted of three parts the first part
included introduction the second part
consisted of making photo portieres from the
magazines and during the third part of the
event children were learning origami ndash the
traditional Japanese art of paper folding
Children found these activities interesting
and were enthusiastic about implementing
them The event concluded with taking a lot
of pictures
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 11
On June 5 FLEX Alumni organized a
farewell party dedicated to Anne
Benjaminson ndash US Embassy Cultural
Affairs Officer Anne worked as the
Cultural Affairs Officer in Tajikistan for
two years and during this time
established warm and close relationships
with FLEX alumni For her support of all
FLEX alumni activities a group of
FLEX alumni made special preparations
for the farewell meeting They decorated
the conference hall in the American
Councils office with a big colored
ldquoSmileldquo International Childrenrsquos Day Celebration with
the Children from the Deaf School
ldquoRight To Happinessrdquo Project with Disabled Children and
Children With Poor Eyesight
Within the framework of the GYSD
FLEX alumni and Tajikistan
Assosiation of the Blind Children
organized a sale exhibition of hand made
objects mosaics and paintings of the
children with physical and mental
disabilities and poor eysight in
Molodejniy theater on April 26 This
event was supported by the US
Embassy which provided financial aid to
rent the theater The rest of the money
neccessary for the posters childrenrsquos
transportation and small gifts for
participants had been previously raised
by alumni On the day of the event
Kadamsho Usufbekov sbquo05 Shoira
Pulatova sbquo08 Zurab Dodkhudoev sbquo07 and
Farangis Nozizmoda sbquo07 early in the
morning got together in the hall of
Molodejniy theater to help decorators
from bdquoFormula Schastyardquo ndash decoration
agency who kindly consented to
decorate the Exibition and Concert halls
for free
The sale exhibition started at 10 am FLEX
alumni stayed near every table and answered
questions of the visitors After the exibition
alumni performed a concert with the
participation of the children with physical
and mental disabilities and poor eyesight
and what was suprise ndash Tajik Pop Stars For
their performance the Tajik Pop Stars did
not charge the alumni any money
The concert was led by two boys with poor
eyesight During the concert talented
children with disabilities sang songs
performed dances and read poems In
concert participated such Tajik Pop Stars as
Takhmina Niyozava and dance band ldquoWestrdquo
The children were very happy
Over all more than 150 school children
university students foreigners from
different NGOrsquos and other individuals
visited the exhibition and the concert This
event was highlighted on radio BBC Iran
and newsletter ldquoJumhuriyatrdquo
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 12
Issue No4 June 2009
On May 4 2009 IREX Tajikistan
organized a Grant Writing Seminar for
the Alumni Small Grant Program
(ASGP) and Project Smile (PS) at the
Tahvid Hotel Conference Hall in
Khujand The seminar was attended by
approximately 20 ECA alumni of
programs including UGRAD TEA
FLEX and Global Connections and
Exchange Education Programs Division
Program Coordinator Bakhtiyor Isoev
facilitated the
Page 13
seminar which aimed to familiarize alumni with the basic principles of designing a project and
writing successful grant applications for the upcoming October rounds of the Alumni Small Grant
Program (ASGP) and Project Smile (PS)
Alumni learned how to better identify and approach potential donors as well as general techniques
for writing quality grant applications Alumni also had a chance to share their past experiences
applying to grant programs with other participants and discussed lessons learned in the areas of
needs assessments cost-sharing and in-kind contributions sustainability and multiplier effect
issues budget and implementation feasibility goal and objective development and many more
All attendees received certificates of achievement and IREX staff encouraged alumni to apply for
upcoming rounds of ASGP and PS applications At the end everyone left the seminar with at least
five project ideas and newly equipped grant writing skills
Grant Writing Seminar
Public Speaking Skills Workshop
On May 27 2009 IREX
Tajikistan organized a Public
Speaking Skills Training in the
Dusti Amirkhon Business
Restaurantrsquos Conference Hall The
workshop was attended by
approximately 20 ECA alumni
living and studying in Sugd
Region These alumni include
UGRAD TEA FLEX and Global
Connections alumni as well as
2009-2010 Global UGRAD
finalists The workshop was
conducted in English by IREX
Tajikistan Education Programs
Division Program Coordinator
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 14
Bakhtiyor Isoev The goal of the workshop was to familiarize alumni with the basic principles of
public speaking and equip them with the skills necessary to feel confident while speaking in front
of people
After few energizing and teambuilding activities the first part of the workshop was dedicated to
getting to know what communication communication genres and the communication process are
Next all attendees were instructed to come up with and generate words on flipcharts that make
them think about public speaking Having played the game alumni presented their understanding
of public speaking The training continued with interactive games that helped equip participants
with the necessary skills to be better public speakers use and conduct PowerPoint presentations in
a more productive manner Afterwards participants were split into three groups to come up with
topics and make a short presentation about their idea The workshop ended with IREX Tajikistan
staff handing certificates of achievement all participants
UGrad alumna Masuda Sobitova visited the American Corner in Khujand and showed patrons a
Power Point presentation of her stay in the United States researching English teaching curriculum
development
Sobitova inspired the students by sharing her incredible experience in the United States studying at
Graceland University in Lamoni Iowa her internship and cultural presentations cooking Tajik
food and traveling to other states She introduced America to the audience in her presentation by
sharing very beautiful photos postcards presents and souvenirs After Sobitovas presentation the
students were eager to learn more about the UGrad program and asked lots of questions on how to
get better prepared and apply for such programs Sobitova responded to their questions applying
her considerable experience gained as a participant of the UGrad program
UGRAD Alumna Masuda Sobitova
Shares Her US Experience
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 15
UGRAD 2007-2008 alumna Mukhlisa Parpieva organized
a three-day educational training for her university
classmates at the student dorm of Khujand State
University May 20th through May 22nd The training
allowed students to learn about US Education System and
the Global UGRAD Program and its application process
On the second day participants has watched a movie in
English and have discussed it afterwards in English
UGRAD alumni Mahfuza Sobitova (UGRAD 2007-2008)
and Masuda Sobitova (UGRAD 2008-2009) provided their
support in organizing these activities in Khujand A third-
year student participant commented ldquoThis training has been
a good lesson for me and gave a lot of information about
education system of the US and study opportunities abroad
UGRAD Alumna Organizes Three-Day Educational Training
I was so glad I could participate in this
training I learned a lot Moreover I
enjoyed the Movie Night which was
fun and informative Thanks to the
IREX for supporting the events which
serve to provide students with very
useful informationrdquo
Mukhlisa noted in her report to
IREX Tajikistan Actually the Three-
Day Educational Training was the best
event I have ever conducted It was the
process of learning about opportunities
sharing ideas finding out about the
successful application that is how to fill
applications effectively and having fun
by watching the ldquoBend it Like
Bekhamrdquo movie During these three
days I enjoyed answering studentsrsquo
questions about studying abroad and my
own university experience in the US
Usually teachers are inspired by their
studentsrsquo active learning and like a
teacher I was so happy to see studentsrsquo
interests and active participation in all
activitiesrdquo
On May 29 2009 over 40 US Government-sponsored
alumni including alumni of the Global UGRAD FLEX
and TEA programs as well as Global UGRAD finalists
and other university students volunteered at the ldquoLetrsquosKeep the World Cleanrdquo service event in Kayrakkum The
purpose of the event was to raise the awareness among
alumni about environment protection and make alumni
contribute by cleaning the lakeshore The service was
organized by IREX Tajikistan in the framework of the
UGRAD and Muskie alumni programming with
cooperation of Youth Group for Protection of the
Environment (YGPE)
Letrsquos Keep the World Clean
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 16
Join State Alumni Your Global Community for alumni of
State Department exchange programs
Who are Alumni ndash Your Global Community
Alumni are past participants of US government-sponsored exchange programs With more
than 1000000 alumni worldwide State Alumni include world leaders achievers and
influencers Among this global community are 47 Nobel Laureates and over 300 chiefs of state
or heads of government They are politicians CEOs teachers authors artists and most
importantly you As an alumnusa of a State Department-funded exchange program you are
part of a global community of the best and brightest Build upon your exchange experience to
advance your goals your community and our world
State Alumni Opportunities and resources for you to connect with other alumni
middot Hundreds of grant job and event postings
middot Over 20000 free titles in the online research center
middot Access to apply for over $33 billion in funding opportunities
middot News about alumni projects alumni success stories
middot Participate in QampA Live discussions with experts
middot Share your reflections or research publications and join discussion forums
middot Find fellow alumni to network with others in your field or your region
middot Search for resumes or add your own to the global community
Continue the exchange as alumni
middot Be active in your local alumni community
middot Join State Alumni (httpsalumnistategov) and the international social network
ldquoExchanges Connectrdquo httpconnectstategov
middot Discover meet share learn grow and achieve
US Embassy DushanbeWeb httpdushanbeusembassygov
httprussiandushanbeusembassygov
bullDo you want to study in the United State
bullWant to learn more about these exchange programs at the US Embassy
Sign up for the mailing list from the Public Diplomacy section of the US Embassy Dushanbe to
find out about these programs and more Simply send a blank e-mail message to
usembassydushanbeprograms-subscribeyahoogroupscom
Educational Advising CenterAmerican Councils for International Education ACTRACCELS Dushanbe
734003 86 Tolstoy Street Tajikistan
To subscribe to the Education USA Weekly Update on scholarships and fellowships distribution list please
send your request to EducationUSAamericancouncils-tjorg
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 17
Sponsored jointly by a US embassy and a host country organization an American Corner
serves as an information outpost similar to a public library The multi-media book and
periodical collections are open and accessible Where possible associated reading or meeting
rooms are made available to host program events and activities (ie author readings speaker
programs films workshops meetings and exhibits) The fundamental function of the American
Corner is to make information about the United States available to foreign publics at large
American Corner consists of a collection of books in English from and about the United States
The book collection may include reference titles information products from the State
Department Office of International Information Programs works of fiction business and
government publications English Language Learning materials American Corners also provide
access to US information through access to the Internet audio and video products CDs and
CD-ROMS The Corners are staffed by host institution personnel
There are three American Corners currently functioning in Tajikistan in Dushanbe Khujand
and Kulob and two more to be opened soon in Khorog and Qurghon-Teppa
American Corners Contact Information
Dushanbe American Corner Qurghon-Teppa American Corner
Central Scientific Library Sworde-Teppa Center
Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan 25 Vahdat Street
33 Rudaki Avenue Tel (992) (3222) 29528
Tel (992) (37) 2275526 E-mail acqurghon_teppayahoocom
E-mail acdushanbemailru
Khujand American Corner Khorog American Corner
Asiri Public Library Educational Center
1 Lenin Street 1 Azizbek Street
Tel (992) (342) 260313 Tel (992) (3522) 22299
E-mail ackhujandramblerru E-mail ackhorogyahoocom
Kulob American Corner
Kulob Branch Technological University
Borbad Street 9th microregion
Tel (992) 918 57 92 25
E-mail ackulobyahoocom
American Corners Tajikistan
American Corners are partnerships between the Public Affairs
sections of United States Embassies and host institutions
They provide access to current and reliable information from
and about the United States via book collections the Internet
and through local programming to the general public overseas
or abroad
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 6
Brenda Flanagan Author Civil Rights Advocate
Flanagan spoke about the evolution of civil rights in the United States highlighting significant
events that led to improvements in equal rights for Black Americans such as Brown vs the Board
of Education Septima Clarks literacy campaigns to ensure Blacks could vote and Collette Colvin
refusing to relinquish her seat in the front of the bus She spoke about how the election of President
Obama was made possible by sacrifices and struggles of these and other civil rights advocates She
urged the audiences to continue the struggle against ldquoinstitutionalized racismrdquo that still affects US
citizens today Sharing the pain of prejudice sometimes brought tears to her eyes as when she spoke
of Emmett Till murdered on suspicion of whistling at a white woman or when she herself was shot
at after moving into a white neighborhood in Texarkana
Flanagan emphasized that fair and democratic government is an ongoing process and civil rights in
the US will continue even after the election of an African American president She communicated a
crucial message to inspire civil leaders in Tajikistan to advocate for rights codified in law but not
defended in practice
Brenda Flanagan also met with UGS programs alumni at the ldquoPamirrdquo restaurant Alumni were
asking a lot of questions about Flanaganrsquos published collection of short stories ldquoIn Praise of Island
Women and Other Crimesrdquo
Brenda Flanagan a professor of English and award winning writer from North Carolina
performed her short stories for audiences in Dushanbe Khujand and Qurghon-Teppa
The cultural event helped reach a broad Tajik audience from academia media business and cultural
circles high school and university students Through stories about Flanagans unique life history
and empathy with the poor and elderly Flanagan inspired members of the audience to volunteer for
civil society activities to help the disadvantaged
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 7
The US Embassy Presents David Korevaar Pianist
After being introduced by Ambassador Tracey Jacobson
Boulder Colorado-based pianist David Korevaar
performed for a capacity crowd at the Kamoli Khujandi
Theater in Khujand His repertoire included American
works as well as pieces by Tajik composers Zaydullo and
Tolib Shahidi Following the concert Korevaar signed
autographs and took pictures with fans This activity
promoted American music and culture in a remote region
of Tajikistan that rarely welcomes foreign visitors
Cultural Envoy David Korevaar
performed before a packed house at the
Tajik Conservatory Korevaarrsquos
performance was part of the
International Piano Festival which
featured pianists from Russia
Kazakhstan Kyrgyzstan Tajikistan
and the United States At his solo
concert Korevaar played pieces by
Aaron Copland and Franz Liszt as well
as compositions by Tajik composers
Ziyodullo and Tolib Shahidi The
pianist talked about music and
American culture with visitors to the
Dushanbe American Corner
Korevaar held master classes in five
music schools and conservatories in
Dushanbe and Khujand Students
played pieces for him so that he could
assess their techniques and skills
At Dushanbersquos American Corner Korevaar discusses music and American culture with patrons
During his 10-day visit to Tajikistan Korevaar gave concerts in Dushanbe and Khujand and
taught master classes in five music schools and conservatories in Dushanbe and Khujand This
was Korevaarrsquos second Tajik sojourn he first visited Tajikistan in April 2008
USG and Soros Alumni Discuss Economic Crisis with
President Rahmons Senior Economic Advisors
Alumni of a Community Connection Loan Management June 2009 program in Bluefield West
Virginia returned and developed the program ldquoEducational Training for Girls in Istaravshanrdquo
The main aim of this program is to increase opportunities for 12 girls from Istravshan to pursue
higher education by preparing them for graduate study through additional to school training in
English and leadership The long term goal of the program is to encourage target girls to become
leaders in their communities
The training for girls aims at promoting volunteerism among CC alumni by their active
participation in the program as invited speakers and monitors of the program implementation but
also aims at transferring the attitude to beneficiaries of the program to develop a volunteering
concept in local communities
Loan management alumni had a chance to participate in volunteer activities and learn the concept of
volunteerism in the United States Participants observed how Americans contribute to their
communities and help shape the society they live in On return to Tajikistan the alumni also
founded the Community Connections Alumni Association a nongovernmental organization
through which they plan to implement various activities whose ultimate goal is to benefit the local
communities they represent Irrespective of a wide spectrum of professional fields which CC alumni
represent the CC Alumni Association will work on strengthening the concept of volunteerism in
Tajikistan
Community Connections Alumni
Launch Association and Programs after Return from US
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 8
Nematjon Buriev and Farrukh Hamraliev senior adviser to President Rahmon briefed USG and
Soros alumni working in the economic and financial sectors on Government of Tajikistan efforts
to mitigate the crisis in Tajikistan at a roundtable discussion June 23 2009
The government economic policy experts and alumni with global perspectives and expertise
shared their assessments of the scope and duration of the global economic crisis on Tajikistans
fragile economy The advisors expressed appreciation for the experience of the alumni The
roundtable helped forge relationships between people with knowledge that can affect the countrys
economic future
On July 2 2009 the Association of Fulbright Alumni and Informational Center on Human
Rights organized a virtual art exhibition at the American Corner in Dushanbe The exhibition
was dedicated to Independence Day of the US Alla Aslitdinova Director of Scientific Library
of Academy of Science and Fulbright alumna 2004-2005 made a presentation about American
history and the Memorial Day Holiday The students were very interested and asked many
questions Fulbright alumni also made presentations about USG educational exchange programs
and encourage students to participate in those programs
A Virtual Art Exhibition
From June 24-26 Malika Khakimova rsquo04
Farangis Nozimzoda rsquo07 and Kadamsho
Usufbekov rsquo05 participated in the ldquoTogether
We Carerdquo project organized by Kazakhstan
FLEX alumni in Almaty The purpose of the
project was to strengthen relationships
between the alumni community of the
participant countries and together solve
problems of financial world crises and border
related issues These issues were topics of the
debate tournament and round table
discussion which were held on the second day
of event Alumni plan to implement
solutions offered though the round tables
discussion and debate in their further work
within their own communities
ldquoTogether We Carerdquo Debate Tournament in Almaty
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 9
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 10
Fifteen FLEX alumni volunteered to help the US Embassy host more than 140 children from the
Tursun-Zade Orphanage for a full day of fun on May 10 Games and activities included football
basketball swimming and volleyball The children also learned traditional American games such as
hopscotch and ldquoSlip N Sliderdquo flew kites and made art projects The event included a full lunch
which was partially sponsored by the Sega Fredo and Morning Star Cafes A live band performed
traditional Tajik music in the afternoon The children brought their favorite toys back to the
orphanage
Embassy Hosts Day of Fun and Games for More Than
140 Orphans
On June 1 group of Khujand FLEX alumni together with initiative group ldquoOur Kidsrdquo visited the
orphanage in the city of Chkalovsk The event was divided into three parts The first part
consisted of introducing alumni to orphans and their teachers Alumni talked about the FLEX
program and motivated children to study English and participate in the FLEX tests After the
introduction children were divided in to three groups o play different games Alumni played
basketball tennis rockets American football and other American games with the children
American football was the most popular sport because it was something new for them FLEX
alumnus Mukhtor Soliev rsquo07 presented to the children his own football which he brought from
the US as a memento from the FLEX community By the end of the games participants of the
winning teams were awarded with presents The second part of the event took place indoors
Alumni showed pa resentation about the environment and had a session with children about
keeping the environment clean Afterward the session alumni organized mini coffee- break for
the children The third part of the event consisted of a poetry reading contest in which all
children participated They read poems in Tajik Russian and English languages and sang songs
At the end of the event alumni distributed clothes which they earlier collected through a
clothing drive
International Childrenrsquos Day Celebration With Orphans Chkalovsk
Farewell Party for Anne Benjaminson Cultural Affairs Officer
Poster ldquoWe Will Miss You Annerdquo During the meeting the alumni wished her the best of luck in
her further work shared their thoughts and their future plans After two years of acquaintance
the alumni thanked Anne for her wonderful cooperation with FLEX alumni In the end alumni
presented a memorable t-shirt and delicious cake which alumni specially ordered for Anne Ms
Benjaminson was amazed by the memorable t-shirt and sincerely thanked alumni for their work
For International Childrenrsquos Day Farangis
Nozimzoda lsquo07 Zurab Dodkhudoev lsquo07 and
Abdulvakob Hofizi lsquo09 visited the Global
Connections and Exchange program students
from school No8 for the deaf children in
Dushanbe on June 2 Especially for this event
alumni prepared variety of interesting
activities which were aimed to learn origami
and develop personal skills The event
consisted of three parts the first part
included introduction the second part
consisted of making photo portieres from the
magazines and during the third part of the
event children were learning origami ndash the
traditional Japanese art of paper folding
Children found these activities interesting
and were enthusiastic about implementing
them The event concluded with taking a lot
of pictures
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 11
On June 5 FLEX Alumni organized a
farewell party dedicated to Anne
Benjaminson ndash US Embassy Cultural
Affairs Officer Anne worked as the
Cultural Affairs Officer in Tajikistan for
two years and during this time
established warm and close relationships
with FLEX alumni For her support of all
FLEX alumni activities a group of
FLEX alumni made special preparations
for the farewell meeting They decorated
the conference hall in the American
Councils office with a big colored
ldquoSmileldquo International Childrenrsquos Day Celebration with
the Children from the Deaf School
ldquoRight To Happinessrdquo Project with Disabled Children and
Children With Poor Eyesight
Within the framework of the GYSD
FLEX alumni and Tajikistan
Assosiation of the Blind Children
organized a sale exhibition of hand made
objects mosaics and paintings of the
children with physical and mental
disabilities and poor eysight in
Molodejniy theater on April 26 This
event was supported by the US
Embassy which provided financial aid to
rent the theater The rest of the money
neccessary for the posters childrenrsquos
transportation and small gifts for
participants had been previously raised
by alumni On the day of the event
Kadamsho Usufbekov sbquo05 Shoira
Pulatova sbquo08 Zurab Dodkhudoev sbquo07 and
Farangis Nozizmoda sbquo07 early in the
morning got together in the hall of
Molodejniy theater to help decorators
from bdquoFormula Schastyardquo ndash decoration
agency who kindly consented to
decorate the Exibition and Concert halls
for free
The sale exhibition started at 10 am FLEX
alumni stayed near every table and answered
questions of the visitors After the exibition
alumni performed a concert with the
participation of the children with physical
and mental disabilities and poor eyesight
and what was suprise ndash Tajik Pop Stars For
their performance the Tajik Pop Stars did
not charge the alumni any money
The concert was led by two boys with poor
eyesight During the concert talented
children with disabilities sang songs
performed dances and read poems In
concert participated such Tajik Pop Stars as
Takhmina Niyozava and dance band ldquoWestrdquo
The children were very happy
Over all more than 150 school children
university students foreigners from
different NGOrsquos and other individuals
visited the exhibition and the concert This
event was highlighted on radio BBC Iran
and newsletter ldquoJumhuriyatrdquo
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 12
Issue No4 June 2009
On May 4 2009 IREX Tajikistan
organized a Grant Writing Seminar for
the Alumni Small Grant Program
(ASGP) and Project Smile (PS) at the
Tahvid Hotel Conference Hall in
Khujand The seminar was attended by
approximately 20 ECA alumni of
programs including UGRAD TEA
FLEX and Global Connections and
Exchange Education Programs Division
Program Coordinator Bakhtiyor Isoev
facilitated the
Page 13
seminar which aimed to familiarize alumni with the basic principles of designing a project and
writing successful grant applications for the upcoming October rounds of the Alumni Small Grant
Program (ASGP) and Project Smile (PS)
Alumni learned how to better identify and approach potential donors as well as general techniques
for writing quality grant applications Alumni also had a chance to share their past experiences
applying to grant programs with other participants and discussed lessons learned in the areas of
needs assessments cost-sharing and in-kind contributions sustainability and multiplier effect
issues budget and implementation feasibility goal and objective development and many more
All attendees received certificates of achievement and IREX staff encouraged alumni to apply for
upcoming rounds of ASGP and PS applications At the end everyone left the seminar with at least
five project ideas and newly equipped grant writing skills
Grant Writing Seminar
Public Speaking Skills Workshop
On May 27 2009 IREX
Tajikistan organized a Public
Speaking Skills Training in the
Dusti Amirkhon Business
Restaurantrsquos Conference Hall The
workshop was attended by
approximately 20 ECA alumni
living and studying in Sugd
Region These alumni include
UGRAD TEA FLEX and Global
Connections alumni as well as
2009-2010 Global UGRAD
finalists The workshop was
conducted in English by IREX
Tajikistan Education Programs
Division Program Coordinator
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 14
Bakhtiyor Isoev The goal of the workshop was to familiarize alumni with the basic principles of
public speaking and equip them with the skills necessary to feel confident while speaking in front
of people
After few energizing and teambuilding activities the first part of the workshop was dedicated to
getting to know what communication communication genres and the communication process are
Next all attendees were instructed to come up with and generate words on flipcharts that make
them think about public speaking Having played the game alumni presented their understanding
of public speaking The training continued with interactive games that helped equip participants
with the necessary skills to be better public speakers use and conduct PowerPoint presentations in
a more productive manner Afterwards participants were split into three groups to come up with
topics and make a short presentation about their idea The workshop ended with IREX Tajikistan
staff handing certificates of achievement all participants
UGrad alumna Masuda Sobitova visited the American Corner in Khujand and showed patrons a
Power Point presentation of her stay in the United States researching English teaching curriculum
development
Sobitova inspired the students by sharing her incredible experience in the United States studying at
Graceland University in Lamoni Iowa her internship and cultural presentations cooking Tajik
food and traveling to other states She introduced America to the audience in her presentation by
sharing very beautiful photos postcards presents and souvenirs After Sobitovas presentation the
students were eager to learn more about the UGrad program and asked lots of questions on how to
get better prepared and apply for such programs Sobitova responded to their questions applying
her considerable experience gained as a participant of the UGrad program
UGRAD Alumna Masuda Sobitova
Shares Her US Experience
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 15
UGRAD 2007-2008 alumna Mukhlisa Parpieva organized
a three-day educational training for her university
classmates at the student dorm of Khujand State
University May 20th through May 22nd The training
allowed students to learn about US Education System and
the Global UGRAD Program and its application process
On the second day participants has watched a movie in
English and have discussed it afterwards in English
UGRAD alumni Mahfuza Sobitova (UGRAD 2007-2008)
and Masuda Sobitova (UGRAD 2008-2009) provided their
support in organizing these activities in Khujand A third-
year student participant commented ldquoThis training has been
a good lesson for me and gave a lot of information about
education system of the US and study opportunities abroad
UGRAD Alumna Organizes Three-Day Educational Training
I was so glad I could participate in this
training I learned a lot Moreover I
enjoyed the Movie Night which was
fun and informative Thanks to the
IREX for supporting the events which
serve to provide students with very
useful informationrdquo
Mukhlisa noted in her report to
IREX Tajikistan Actually the Three-
Day Educational Training was the best
event I have ever conducted It was the
process of learning about opportunities
sharing ideas finding out about the
successful application that is how to fill
applications effectively and having fun
by watching the ldquoBend it Like
Bekhamrdquo movie During these three
days I enjoyed answering studentsrsquo
questions about studying abroad and my
own university experience in the US
Usually teachers are inspired by their
studentsrsquo active learning and like a
teacher I was so happy to see studentsrsquo
interests and active participation in all
activitiesrdquo
On May 29 2009 over 40 US Government-sponsored
alumni including alumni of the Global UGRAD FLEX
and TEA programs as well as Global UGRAD finalists
and other university students volunteered at the ldquoLetrsquosKeep the World Cleanrdquo service event in Kayrakkum The
purpose of the event was to raise the awareness among
alumni about environment protection and make alumni
contribute by cleaning the lakeshore The service was
organized by IREX Tajikistan in the framework of the
UGRAD and Muskie alumni programming with
cooperation of Youth Group for Protection of the
Environment (YGPE)
Letrsquos Keep the World Clean
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 16
Join State Alumni Your Global Community for alumni of
State Department exchange programs
Who are Alumni ndash Your Global Community
Alumni are past participants of US government-sponsored exchange programs With more
than 1000000 alumni worldwide State Alumni include world leaders achievers and
influencers Among this global community are 47 Nobel Laureates and over 300 chiefs of state
or heads of government They are politicians CEOs teachers authors artists and most
importantly you As an alumnusa of a State Department-funded exchange program you are
part of a global community of the best and brightest Build upon your exchange experience to
advance your goals your community and our world
State Alumni Opportunities and resources for you to connect with other alumni
middot Hundreds of grant job and event postings
middot Over 20000 free titles in the online research center
middot Access to apply for over $33 billion in funding opportunities
middot News about alumni projects alumni success stories
middot Participate in QampA Live discussions with experts
middot Share your reflections or research publications and join discussion forums
middot Find fellow alumni to network with others in your field or your region
middot Search for resumes or add your own to the global community
Continue the exchange as alumni
middot Be active in your local alumni community
middot Join State Alumni (httpsalumnistategov) and the international social network
ldquoExchanges Connectrdquo httpconnectstategov
middot Discover meet share learn grow and achieve
US Embassy DushanbeWeb httpdushanbeusembassygov
httprussiandushanbeusembassygov
bullDo you want to study in the United State
bullWant to learn more about these exchange programs at the US Embassy
Sign up for the mailing list from the Public Diplomacy section of the US Embassy Dushanbe to
find out about these programs and more Simply send a blank e-mail message to
usembassydushanbeprograms-subscribeyahoogroupscom
Educational Advising CenterAmerican Councils for International Education ACTRACCELS Dushanbe
734003 86 Tolstoy Street Tajikistan
To subscribe to the Education USA Weekly Update on scholarships and fellowships distribution list please
send your request to EducationUSAamericancouncils-tjorg
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 17
Sponsored jointly by a US embassy and a host country organization an American Corner
serves as an information outpost similar to a public library The multi-media book and
periodical collections are open and accessible Where possible associated reading or meeting
rooms are made available to host program events and activities (ie author readings speaker
programs films workshops meetings and exhibits) The fundamental function of the American
Corner is to make information about the United States available to foreign publics at large
American Corner consists of a collection of books in English from and about the United States
The book collection may include reference titles information products from the State
Department Office of International Information Programs works of fiction business and
government publications English Language Learning materials American Corners also provide
access to US information through access to the Internet audio and video products CDs and
CD-ROMS The Corners are staffed by host institution personnel
There are three American Corners currently functioning in Tajikistan in Dushanbe Khujand
and Kulob and two more to be opened soon in Khorog and Qurghon-Teppa
American Corners Contact Information
Dushanbe American Corner Qurghon-Teppa American Corner
Central Scientific Library Sworde-Teppa Center
Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan 25 Vahdat Street
33 Rudaki Avenue Tel (992) (3222) 29528
Tel (992) (37) 2275526 E-mail acqurghon_teppayahoocom
E-mail acdushanbemailru
Khujand American Corner Khorog American Corner
Asiri Public Library Educational Center
1 Lenin Street 1 Azizbek Street
Tel (992) (342) 260313 Tel (992) (3522) 22299
E-mail ackhujandramblerru E-mail ackhorogyahoocom
Kulob American Corner
Kulob Branch Technological University
Borbad Street 9th microregion
Tel (992) 918 57 92 25
E-mail ackulobyahoocom
American Corners Tajikistan
American Corners are partnerships between the Public Affairs
sections of United States Embassies and host institutions
They provide access to current and reliable information from
and about the United States via book collections the Internet
and through local programming to the general public overseas
or abroad
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 7
The US Embassy Presents David Korevaar Pianist
After being introduced by Ambassador Tracey Jacobson
Boulder Colorado-based pianist David Korevaar
performed for a capacity crowd at the Kamoli Khujandi
Theater in Khujand His repertoire included American
works as well as pieces by Tajik composers Zaydullo and
Tolib Shahidi Following the concert Korevaar signed
autographs and took pictures with fans This activity
promoted American music and culture in a remote region
of Tajikistan that rarely welcomes foreign visitors
Cultural Envoy David Korevaar
performed before a packed house at the
Tajik Conservatory Korevaarrsquos
performance was part of the
International Piano Festival which
featured pianists from Russia
Kazakhstan Kyrgyzstan Tajikistan
and the United States At his solo
concert Korevaar played pieces by
Aaron Copland and Franz Liszt as well
as compositions by Tajik composers
Ziyodullo and Tolib Shahidi The
pianist talked about music and
American culture with visitors to the
Dushanbe American Corner
Korevaar held master classes in five
music schools and conservatories in
Dushanbe and Khujand Students
played pieces for him so that he could
assess their techniques and skills
At Dushanbersquos American Corner Korevaar discusses music and American culture with patrons
During his 10-day visit to Tajikistan Korevaar gave concerts in Dushanbe and Khujand and
taught master classes in five music schools and conservatories in Dushanbe and Khujand This
was Korevaarrsquos second Tajik sojourn he first visited Tajikistan in April 2008
USG and Soros Alumni Discuss Economic Crisis with
President Rahmons Senior Economic Advisors
Alumni of a Community Connection Loan Management June 2009 program in Bluefield West
Virginia returned and developed the program ldquoEducational Training for Girls in Istaravshanrdquo
The main aim of this program is to increase opportunities for 12 girls from Istravshan to pursue
higher education by preparing them for graduate study through additional to school training in
English and leadership The long term goal of the program is to encourage target girls to become
leaders in their communities
The training for girls aims at promoting volunteerism among CC alumni by their active
participation in the program as invited speakers and monitors of the program implementation but
also aims at transferring the attitude to beneficiaries of the program to develop a volunteering
concept in local communities
Loan management alumni had a chance to participate in volunteer activities and learn the concept of
volunteerism in the United States Participants observed how Americans contribute to their
communities and help shape the society they live in On return to Tajikistan the alumni also
founded the Community Connections Alumni Association a nongovernmental organization
through which they plan to implement various activities whose ultimate goal is to benefit the local
communities they represent Irrespective of a wide spectrum of professional fields which CC alumni
represent the CC Alumni Association will work on strengthening the concept of volunteerism in
Tajikistan
Community Connections Alumni
Launch Association and Programs after Return from US
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 8
Nematjon Buriev and Farrukh Hamraliev senior adviser to President Rahmon briefed USG and
Soros alumni working in the economic and financial sectors on Government of Tajikistan efforts
to mitigate the crisis in Tajikistan at a roundtable discussion June 23 2009
The government economic policy experts and alumni with global perspectives and expertise
shared their assessments of the scope and duration of the global economic crisis on Tajikistans
fragile economy The advisors expressed appreciation for the experience of the alumni The
roundtable helped forge relationships between people with knowledge that can affect the countrys
economic future
On July 2 2009 the Association of Fulbright Alumni and Informational Center on Human
Rights organized a virtual art exhibition at the American Corner in Dushanbe The exhibition
was dedicated to Independence Day of the US Alla Aslitdinova Director of Scientific Library
of Academy of Science and Fulbright alumna 2004-2005 made a presentation about American
history and the Memorial Day Holiday The students were very interested and asked many
questions Fulbright alumni also made presentations about USG educational exchange programs
and encourage students to participate in those programs
A Virtual Art Exhibition
From June 24-26 Malika Khakimova rsquo04
Farangis Nozimzoda rsquo07 and Kadamsho
Usufbekov rsquo05 participated in the ldquoTogether
We Carerdquo project organized by Kazakhstan
FLEX alumni in Almaty The purpose of the
project was to strengthen relationships
between the alumni community of the
participant countries and together solve
problems of financial world crises and border
related issues These issues were topics of the
debate tournament and round table
discussion which were held on the second day
of event Alumni plan to implement
solutions offered though the round tables
discussion and debate in their further work
within their own communities
ldquoTogether We Carerdquo Debate Tournament in Almaty
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 9
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 10
Fifteen FLEX alumni volunteered to help the US Embassy host more than 140 children from the
Tursun-Zade Orphanage for a full day of fun on May 10 Games and activities included football
basketball swimming and volleyball The children also learned traditional American games such as
hopscotch and ldquoSlip N Sliderdquo flew kites and made art projects The event included a full lunch
which was partially sponsored by the Sega Fredo and Morning Star Cafes A live band performed
traditional Tajik music in the afternoon The children brought their favorite toys back to the
orphanage
Embassy Hosts Day of Fun and Games for More Than
140 Orphans
On June 1 group of Khujand FLEX alumni together with initiative group ldquoOur Kidsrdquo visited the
orphanage in the city of Chkalovsk The event was divided into three parts The first part
consisted of introducing alumni to orphans and their teachers Alumni talked about the FLEX
program and motivated children to study English and participate in the FLEX tests After the
introduction children were divided in to three groups o play different games Alumni played
basketball tennis rockets American football and other American games with the children
American football was the most popular sport because it was something new for them FLEX
alumnus Mukhtor Soliev rsquo07 presented to the children his own football which he brought from
the US as a memento from the FLEX community By the end of the games participants of the
winning teams were awarded with presents The second part of the event took place indoors
Alumni showed pa resentation about the environment and had a session with children about
keeping the environment clean Afterward the session alumni organized mini coffee- break for
the children The third part of the event consisted of a poetry reading contest in which all
children participated They read poems in Tajik Russian and English languages and sang songs
At the end of the event alumni distributed clothes which they earlier collected through a
clothing drive
International Childrenrsquos Day Celebration With Orphans Chkalovsk
Farewell Party for Anne Benjaminson Cultural Affairs Officer
Poster ldquoWe Will Miss You Annerdquo During the meeting the alumni wished her the best of luck in
her further work shared their thoughts and their future plans After two years of acquaintance
the alumni thanked Anne for her wonderful cooperation with FLEX alumni In the end alumni
presented a memorable t-shirt and delicious cake which alumni specially ordered for Anne Ms
Benjaminson was amazed by the memorable t-shirt and sincerely thanked alumni for their work
For International Childrenrsquos Day Farangis
Nozimzoda lsquo07 Zurab Dodkhudoev lsquo07 and
Abdulvakob Hofizi lsquo09 visited the Global
Connections and Exchange program students
from school No8 for the deaf children in
Dushanbe on June 2 Especially for this event
alumni prepared variety of interesting
activities which were aimed to learn origami
and develop personal skills The event
consisted of three parts the first part
included introduction the second part
consisted of making photo portieres from the
magazines and during the third part of the
event children were learning origami ndash the
traditional Japanese art of paper folding
Children found these activities interesting
and were enthusiastic about implementing
them The event concluded with taking a lot
of pictures
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 11
On June 5 FLEX Alumni organized a
farewell party dedicated to Anne
Benjaminson ndash US Embassy Cultural
Affairs Officer Anne worked as the
Cultural Affairs Officer in Tajikistan for
two years and during this time
established warm and close relationships
with FLEX alumni For her support of all
FLEX alumni activities a group of
FLEX alumni made special preparations
for the farewell meeting They decorated
the conference hall in the American
Councils office with a big colored
ldquoSmileldquo International Childrenrsquos Day Celebration with
the Children from the Deaf School
ldquoRight To Happinessrdquo Project with Disabled Children and
Children With Poor Eyesight
Within the framework of the GYSD
FLEX alumni and Tajikistan
Assosiation of the Blind Children
organized a sale exhibition of hand made
objects mosaics and paintings of the
children with physical and mental
disabilities and poor eysight in
Molodejniy theater on April 26 This
event was supported by the US
Embassy which provided financial aid to
rent the theater The rest of the money
neccessary for the posters childrenrsquos
transportation and small gifts for
participants had been previously raised
by alumni On the day of the event
Kadamsho Usufbekov sbquo05 Shoira
Pulatova sbquo08 Zurab Dodkhudoev sbquo07 and
Farangis Nozizmoda sbquo07 early in the
morning got together in the hall of
Molodejniy theater to help decorators
from bdquoFormula Schastyardquo ndash decoration
agency who kindly consented to
decorate the Exibition and Concert halls
for free
The sale exhibition started at 10 am FLEX
alumni stayed near every table and answered
questions of the visitors After the exibition
alumni performed a concert with the
participation of the children with physical
and mental disabilities and poor eyesight
and what was suprise ndash Tajik Pop Stars For
their performance the Tajik Pop Stars did
not charge the alumni any money
The concert was led by two boys with poor
eyesight During the concert talented
children with disabilities sang songs
performed dances and read poems In
concert participated such Tajik Pop Stars as
Takhmina Niyozava and dance band ldquoWestrdquo
The children were very happy
Over all more than 150 school children
university students foreigners from
different NGOrsquos and other individuals
visited the exhibition and the concert This
event was highlighted on radio BBC Iran
and newsletter ldquoJumhuriyatrdquo
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 12
Issue No4 June 2009
On May 4 2009 IREX Tajikistan
organized a Grant Writing Seminar for
the Alumni Small Grant Program
(ASGP) and Project Smile (PS) at the
Tahvid Hotel Conference Hall in
Khujand The seminar was attended by
approximately 20 ECA alumni of
programs including UGRAD TEA
FLEX and Global Connections and
Exchange Education Programs Division
Program Coordinator Bakhtiyor Isoev
facilitated the
Page 13
seminar which aimed to familiarize alumni with the basic principles of designing a project and
writing successful grant applications for the upcoming October rounds of the Alumni Small Grant
Program (ASGP) and Project Smile (PS)
Alumni learned how to better identify and approach potential donors as well as general techniques
for writing quality grant applications Alumni also had a chance to share their past experiences
applying to grant programs with other participants and discussed lessons learned in the areas of
needs assessments cost-sharing and in-kind contributions sustainability and multiplier effect
issues budget and implementation feasibility goal and objective development and many more
All attendees received certificates of achievement and IREX staff encouraged alumni to apply for
upcoming rounds of ASGP and PS applications At the end everyone left the seminar with at least
five project ideas and newly equipped grant writing skills
Grant Writing Seminar
Public Speaking Skills Workshop
On May 27 2009 IREX
Tajikistan organized a Public
Speaking Skills Training in the
Dusti Amirkhon Business
Restaurantrsquos Conference Hall The
workshop was attended by
approximately 20 ECA alumni
living and studying in Sugd
Region These alumni include
UGRAD TEA FLEX and Global
Connections alumni as well as
2009-2010 Global UGRAD
finalists The workshop was
conducted in English by IREX
Tajikistan Education Programs
Division Program Coordinator
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 14
Bakhtiyor Isoev The goal of the workshop was to familiarize alumni with the basic principles of
public speaking and equip them with the skills necessary to feel confident while speaking in front
of people
After few energizing and teambuilding activities the first part of the workshop was dedicated to
getting to know what communication communication genres and the communication process are
Next all attendees were instructed to come up with and generate words on flipcharts that make
them think about public speaking Having played the game alumni presented their understanding
of public speaking The training continued with interactive games that helped equip participants
with the necessary skills to be better public speakers use and conduct PowerPoint presentations in
a more productive manner Afterwards participants were split into three groups to come up with
topics and make a short presentation about their idea The workshop ended with IREX Tajikistan
staff handing certificates of achievement all participants
UGrad alumna Masuda Sobitova visited the American Corner in Khujand and showed patrons a
Power Point presentation of her stay in the United States researching English teaching curriculum
development
Sobitova inspired the students by sharing her incredible experience in the United States studying at
Graceland University in Lamoni Iowa her internship and cultural presentations cooking Tajik
food and traveling to other states She introduced America to the audience in her presentation by
sharing very beautiful photos postcards presents and souvenirs After Sobitovas presentation the
students were eager to learn more about the UGrad program and asked lots of questions on how to
get better prepared and apply for such programs Sobitova responded to their questions applying
her considerable experience gained as a participant of the UGrad program
UGRAD Alumna Masuda Sobitova
Shares Her US Experience
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 15
UGRAD 2007-2008 alumna Mukhlisa Parpieva organized
a three-day educational training for her university
classmates at the student dorm of Khujand State
University May 20th through May 22nd The training
allowed students to learn about US Education System and
the Global UGRAD Program and its application process
On the second day participants has watched a movie in
English and have discussed it afterwards in English
UGRAD alumni Mahfuza Sobitova (UGRAD 2007-2008)
and Masuda Sobitova (UGRAD 2008-2009) provided their
support in organizing these activities in Khujand A third-
year student participant commented ldquoThis training has been
a good lesson for me and gave a lot of information about
education system of the US and study opportunities abroad
UGRAD Alumna Organizes Three-Day Educational Training
I was so glad I could participate in this
training I learned a lot Moreover I
enjoyed the Movie Night which was
fun and informative Thanks to the
IREX for supporting the events which
serve to provide students with very
useful informationrdquo
Mukhlisa noted in her report to
IREX Tajikistan Actually the Three-
Day Educational Training was the best
event I have ever conducted It was the
process of learning about opportunities
sharing ideas finding out about the
successful application that is how to fill
applications effectively and having fun
by watching the ldquoBend it Like
Bekhamrdquo movie During these three
days I enjoyed answering studentsrsquo
questions about studying abroad and my
own university experience in the US
Usually teachers are inspired by their
studentsrsquo active learning and like a
teacher I was so happy to see studentsrsquo
interests and active participation in all
activitiesrdquo
On May 29 2009 over 40 US Government-sponsored
alumni including alumni of the Global UGRAD FLEX
and TEA programs as well as Global UGRAD finalists
and other university students volunteered at the ldquoLetrsquosKeep the World Cleanrdquo service event in Kayrakkum The
purpose of the event was to raise the awareness among
alumni about environment protection and make alumni
contribute by cleaning the lakeshore The service was
organized by IREX Tajikistan in the framework of the
UGRAD and Muskie alumni programming with
cooperation of Youth Group for Protection of the
Environment (YGPE)
Letrsquos Keep the World Clean
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 16
Join State Alumni Your Global Community for alumni of
State Department exchange programs
Who are Alumni ndash Your Global Community
Alumni are past participants of US government-sponsored exchange programs With more
than 1000000 alumni worldwide State Alumni include world leaders achievers and
influencers Among this global community are 47 Nobel Laureates and over 300 chiefs of state
or heads of government They are politicians CEOs teachers authors artists and most
importantly you As an alumnusa of a State Department-funded exchange program you are
part of a global community of the best and brightest Build upon your exchange experience to
advance your goals your community and our world
State Alumni Opportunities and resources for you to connect with other alumni
middot Hundreds of grant job and event postings
middot Over 20000 free titles in the online research center
middot Access to apply for over $33 billion in funding opportunities
middot News about alumni projects alumni success stories
middot Participate in QampA Live discussions with experts
middot Share your reflections or research publications and join discussion forums
middot Find fellow alumni to network with others in your field or your region
middot Search for resumes or add your own to the global community
Continue the exchange as alumni
middot Be active in your local alumni community
middot Join State Alumni (httpsalumnistategov) and the international social network
ldquoExchanges Connectrdquo httpconnectstategov
middot Discover meet share learn grow and achieve
US Embassy DushanbeWeb httpdushanbeusembassygov
httprussiandushanbeusembassygov
bullDo you want to study in the United State
bullWant to learn more about these exchange programs at the US Embassy
Sign up for the mailing list from the Public Diplomacy section of the US Embassy Dushanbe to
find out about these programs and more Simply send a blank e-mail message to
usembassydushanbeprograms-subscribeyahoogroupscom
Educational Advising CenterAmerican Councils for International Education ACTRACCELS Dushanbe
734003 86 Tolstoy Street Tajikistan
To subscribe to the Education USA Weekly Update on scholarships and fellowships distribution list please
send your request to EducationUSAamericancouncils-tjorg
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 17
Sponsored jointly by a US embassy and a host country organization an American Corner
serves as an information outpost similar to a public library The multi-media book and
periodical collections are open and accessible Where possible associated reading or meeting
rooms are made available to host program events and activities (ie author readings speaker
programs films workshops meetings and exhibits) The fundamental function of the American
Corner is to make information about the United States available to foreign publics at large
American Corner consists of a collection of books in English from and about the United States
The book collection may include reference titles information products from the State
Department Office of International Information Programs works of fiction business and
government publications English Language Learning materials American Corners also provide
access to US information through access to the Internet audio and video products CDs and
CD-ROMS The Corners are staffed by host institution personnel
There are three American Corners currently functioning in Tajikistan in Dushanbe Khujand
and Kulob and two more to be opened soon in Khorog and Qurghon-Teppa
American Corners Contact Information
Dushanbe American Corner Qurghon-Teppa American Corner
Central Scientific Library Sworde-Teppa Center
Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan 25 Vahdat Street
33 Rudaki Avenue Tel (992) (3222) 29528
Tel (992) (37) 2275526 E-mail acqurghon_teppayahoocom
E-mail acdushanbemailru
Khujand American Corner Khorog American Corner
Asiri Public Library Educational Center
1 Lenin Street 1 Azizbek Street
Tel (992) (342) 260313 Tel (992) (3522) 22299
E-mail ackhujandramblerru E-mail ackhorogyahoocom
Kulob American Corner
Kulob Branch Technological University
Borbad Street 9th microregion
Tel (992) 918 57 92 25
E-mail ackulobyahoocom
American Corners Tajikistan
American Corners are partnerships between the Public Affairs
sections of United States Embassies and host institutions
They provide access to current and reliable information from
and about the United States via book collections the Internet
and through local programming to the general public overseas
or abroad
USG and Soros Alumni Discuss Economic Crisis with
President Rahmons Senior Economic Advisors
Alumni of a Community Connection Loan Management June 2009 program in Bluefield West
Virginia returned and developed the program ldquoEducational Training for Girls in Istaravshanrdquo
The main aim of this program is to increase opportunities for 12 girls from Istravshan to pursue
higher education by preparing them for graduate study through additional to school training in
English and leadership The long term goal of the program is to encourage target girls to become
leaders in their communities
The training for girls aims at promoting volunteerism among CC alumni by their active
participation in the program as invited speakers and monitors of the program implementation but
also aims at transferring the attitude to beneficiaries of the program to develop a volunteering
concept in local communities
Loan management alumni had a chance to participate in volunteer activities and learn the concept of
volunteerism in the United States Participants observed how Americans contribute to their
communities and help shape the society they live in On return to Tajikistan the alumni also
founded the Community Connections Alumni Association a nongovernmental organization
through which they plan to implement various activities whose ultimate goal is to benefit the local
communities they represent Irrespective of a wide spectrum of professional fields which CC alumni
represent the CC Alumni Association will work on strengthening the concept of volunteerism in
Tajikistan
Community Connections Alumni
Launch Association and Programs after Return from US
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 8
Nematjon Buriev and Farrukh Hamraliev senior adviser to President Rahmon briefed USG and
Soros alumni working in the economic and financial sectors on Government of Tajikistan efforts
to mitigate the crisis in Tajikistan at a roundtable discussion June 23 2009
The government economic policy experts and alumni with global perspectives and expertise
shared their assessments of the scope and duration of the global economic crisis on Tajikistans
fragile economy The advisors expressed appreciation for the experience of the alumni The
roundtable helped forge relationships between people with knowledge that can affect the countrys
economic future
On July 2 2009 the Association of Fulbright Alumni and Informational Center on Human
Rights organized a virtual art exhibition at the American Corner in Dushanbe The exhibition
was dedicated to Independence Day of the US Alla Aslitdinova Director of Scientific Library
of Academy of Science and Fulbright alumna 2004-2005 made a presentation about American
history and the Memorial Day Holiday The students were very interested and asked many
questions Fulbright alumni also made presentations about USG educational exchange programs
and encourage students to participate in those programs
A Virtual Art Exhibition
From June 24-26 Malika Khakimova rsquo04
Farangis Nozimzoda rsquo07 and Kadamsho
Usufbekov rsquo05 participated in the ldquoTogether
We Carerdquo project organized by Kazakhstan
FLEX alumni in Almaty The purpose of the
project was to strengthen relationships
between the alumni community of the
participant countries and together solve
problems of financial world crises and border
related issues These issues were topics of the
debate tournament and round table
discussion which were held on the second day
of event Alumni plan to implement
solutions offered though the round tables
discussion and debate in their further work
within their own communities
ldquoTogether We Carerdquo Debate Tournament in Almaty
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 9
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 10
Fifteen FLEX alumni volunteered to help the US Embassy host more than 140 children from the
Tursun-Zade Orphanage for a full day of fun on May 10 Games and activities included football
basketball swimming and volleyball The children also learned traditional American games such as
hopscotch and ldquoSlip N Sliderdquo flew kites and made art projects The event included a full lunch
which was partially sponsored by the Sega Fredo and Morning Star Cafes A live band performed
traditional Tajik music in the afternoon The children brought their favorite toys back to the
orphanage
Embassy Hosts Day of Fun and Games for More Than
140 Orphans
On June 1 group of Khujand FLEX alumni together with initiative group ldquoOur Kidsrdquo visited the
orphanage in the city of Chkalovsk The event was divided into three parts The first part
consisted of introducing alumni to orphans and their teachers Alumni talked about the FLEX
program and motivated children to study English and participate in the FLEX tests After the
introduction children were divided in to three groups o play different games Alumni played
basketball tennis rockets American football and other American games with the children
American football was the most popular sport because it was something new for them FLEX
alumnus Mukhtor Soliev rsquo07 presented to the children his own football which he brought from
the US as a memento from the FLEX community By the end of the games participants of the
winning teams were awarded with presents The second part of the event took place indoors
Alumni showed pa resentation about the environment and had a session with children about
keeping the environment clean Afterward the session alumni organized mini coffee- break for
the children The third part of the event consisted of a poetry reading contest in which all
children participated They read poems in Tajik Russian and English languages and sang songs
At the end of the event alumni distributed clothes which they earlier collected through a
clothing drive
International Childrenrsquos Day Celebration With Orphans Chkalovsk
Farewell Party for Anne Benjaminson Cultural Affairs Officer
Poster ldquoWe Will Miss You Annerdquo During the meeting the alumni wished her the best of luck in
her further work shared their thoughts and their future plans After two years of acquaintance
the alumni thanked Anne for her wonderful cooperation with FLEX alumni In the end alumni
presented a memorable t-shirt and delicious cake which alumni specially ordered for Anne Ms
Benjaminson was amazed by the memorable t-shirt and sincerely thanked alumni for their work
For International Childrenrsquos Day Farangis
Nozimzoda lsquo07 Zurab Dodkhudoev lsquo07 and
Abdulvakob Hofizi lsquo09 visited the Global
Connections and Exchange program students
from school No8 for the deaf children in
Dushanbe on June 2 Especially for this event
alumni prepared variety of interesting
activities which were aimed to learn origami
and develop personal skills The event
consisted of three parts the first part
included introduction the second part
consisted of making photo portieres from the
magazines and during the third part of the
event children were learning origami ndash the
traditional Japanese art of paper folding
Children found these activities interesting
and were enthusiastic about implementing
them The event concluded with taking a lot
of pictures
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 11
On June 5 FLEX Alumni organized a
farewell party dedicated to Anne
Benjaminson ndash US Embassy Cultural
Affairs Officer Anne worked as the
Cultural Affairs Officer in Tajikistan for
two years and during this time
established warm and close relationships
with FLEX alumni For her support of all
FLEX alumni activities a group of
FLEX alumni made special preparations
for the farewell meeting They decorated
the conference hall in the American
Councils office with a big colored
ldquoSmileldquo International Childrenrsquos Day Celebration with
the Children from the Deaf School
ldquoRight To Happinessrdquo Project with Disabled Children and
Children With Poor Eyesight
Within the framework of the GYSD
FLEX alumni and Tajikistan
Assosiation of the Blind Children
organized a sale exhibition of hand made
objects mosaics and paintings of the
children with physical and mental
disabilities and poor eysight in
Molodejniy theater on April 26 This
event was supported by the US
Embassy which provided financial aid to
rent the theater The rest of the money
neccessary for the posters childrenrsquos
transportation and small gifts for
participants had been previously raised
by alumni On the day of the event
Kadamsho Usufbekov sbquo05 Shoira
Pulatova sbquo08 Zurab Dodkhudoev sbquo07 and
Farangis Nozizmoda sbquo07 early in the
morning got together in the hall of
Molodejniy theater to help decorators
from bdquoFormula Schastyardquo ndash decoration
agency who kindly consented to
decorate the Exibition and Concert halls
for free
The sale exhibition started at 10 am FLEX
alumni stayed near every table and answered
questions of the visitors After the exibition
alumni performed a concert with the
participation of the children with physical
and mental disabilities and poor eyesight
and what was suprise ndash Tajik Pop Stars For
their performance the Tajik Pop Stars did
not charge the alumni any money
The concert was led by two boys with poor
eyesight During the concert talented
children with disabilities sang songs
performed dances and read poems In
concert participated such Tajik Pop Stars as
Takhmina Niyozava and dance band ldquoWestrdquo
The children were very happy
Over all more than 150 school children
university students foreigners from
different NGOrsquos and other individuals
visited the exhibition and the concert This
event was highlighted on radio BBC Iran
and newsletter ldquoJumhuriyatrdquo
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 12
Issue No4 June 2009
On May 4 2009 IREX Tajikistan
organized a Grant Writing Seminar for
the Alumni Small Grant Program
(ASGP) and Project Smile (PS) at the
Tahvid Hotel Conference Hall in
Khujand The seminar was attended by
approximately 20 ECA alumni of
programs including UGRAD TEA
FLEX and Global Connections and
Exchange Education Programs Division
Program Coordinator Bakhtiyor Isoev
facilitated the
Page 13
seminar which aimed to familiarize alumni with the basic principles of designing a project and
writing successful grant applications for the upcoming October rounds of the Alumni Small Grant
Program (ASGP) and Project Smile (PS)
Alumni learned how to better identify and approach potential donors as well as general techniques
for writing quality grant applications Alumni also had a chance to share their past experiences
applying to grant programs with other participants and discussed lessons learned in the areas of
needs assessments cost-sharing and in-kind contributions sustainability and multiplier effect
issues budget and implementation feasibility goal and objective development and many more
All attendees received certificates of achievement and IREX staff encouraged alumni to apply for
upcoming rounds of ASGP and PS applications At the end everyone left the seminar with at least
five project ideas and newly equipped grant writing skills
Grant Writing Seminar
Public Speaking Skills Workshop
On May 27 2009 IREX
Tajikistan organized a Public
Speaking Skills Training in the
Dusti Amirkhon Business
Restaurantrsquos Conference Hall The
workshop was attended by
approximately 20 ECA alumni
living and studying in Sugd
Region These alumni include
UGRAD TEA FLEX and Global
Connections alumni as well as
2009-2010 Global UGRAD
finalists The workshop was
conducted in English by IREX
Tajikistan Education Programs
Division Program Coordinator
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 14
Bakhtiyor Isoev The goal of the workshop was to familiarize alumni with the basic principles of
public speaking and equip them with the skills necessary to feel confident while speaking in front
of people
After few energizing and teambuilding activities the first part of the workshop was dedicated to
getting to know what communication communication genres and the communication process are
Next all attendees were instructed to come up with and generate words on flipcharts that make
them think about public speaking Having played the game alumni presented their understanding
of public speaking The training continued with interactive games that helped equip participants
with the necessary skills to be better public speakers use and conduct PowerPoint presentations in
a more productive manner Afterwards participants were split into three groups to come up with
topics and make a short presentation about their idea The workshop ended with IREX Tajikistan
staff handing certificates of achievement all participants
UGrad alumna Masuda Sobitova visited the American Corner in Khujand and showed patrons a
Power Point presentation of her stay in the United States researching English teaching curriculum
development
Sobitova inspired the students by sharing her incredible experience in the United States studying at
Graceland University in Lamoni Iowa her internship and cultural presentations cooking Tajik
food and traveling to other states She introduced America to the audience in her presentation by
sharing very beautiful photos postcards presents and souvenirs After Sobitovas presentation the
students were eager to learn more about the UGrad program and asked lots of questions on how to
get better prepared and apply for such programs Sobitova responded to their questions applying
her considerable experience gained as a participant of the UGrad program
UGRAD Alumna Masuda Sobitova
Shares Her US Experience
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 15
UGRAD 2007-2008 alumna Mukhlisa Parpieva organized
a three-day educational training for her university
classmates at the student dorm of Khujand State
University May 20th through May 22nd The training
allowed students to learn about US Education System and
the Global UGRAD Program and its application process
On the second day participants has watched a movie in
English and have discussed it afterwards in English
UGRAD alumni Mahfuza Sobitova (UGRAD 2007-2008)
and Masuda Sobitova (UGRAD 2008-2009) provided their
support in organizing these activities in Khujand A third-
year student participant commented ldquoThis training has been
a good lesson for me and gave a lot of information about
education system of the US and study opportunities abroad
UGRAD Alumna Organizes Three-Day Educational Training
I was so glad I could participate in this
training I learned a lot Moreover I
enjoyed the Movie Night which was
fun and informative Thanks to the
IREX for supporting the events which
serve to provide students with very
useful informationrdquo
Mukhlisa noted in her report to
IREX Tajikistan Actually the Three-
Day Educational Training was the best
event I have ever conducted It was the
process of learning about opportunities
sharing ideas finding out about the
successful application that is how to fill
applications effectively and having fun
by watching the ldquoBend it Like
Bekhamrdquo movie During these three
days I enjoyed answering studentsrsquo
questions about studying abroad and my
own university experience in the US
Usually teachers are inspired by their
studentsrsquo active learning and like a
teacher I was so happy to see studentsrsquo
interests and active participation in all
activitiesrdquo
On May 29 2009 over 40 US Government-sponsored
alumni including alumni of the Global UGRAD FLEX
and TEA programs as well as Global UGRAD finalists
and other university students volunteered at the ldquoLetrsquosKeep the World Cleanrdquo service event in Kayrakkum The
purpose of the event was to raise the awareness among
alumni about environment protection and make alumni
contribute by cleaning the lakeshore The service was
organized by IREX Tajikistan in the framework of the
UGRAD and Muskie alumni programming with
cooperation of Youth Group for Protection of the
Environment (YGPE)
Letrsquos Keep the World Clean
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 16
Join State Alumni Your Global Community for alumni of
State Department exchange programs
Who are Alumni ndash Your Global Community
Alumni are past participants of US government-sponsored exchange programs With more
than 1000000 alumni worldwide State Alumni include world leaders achievers and
influencers Among this global community are 47 Nobel Laureates and over 300 chiefs of state
or heads of government They are politicians CEOs teachers authors artists and most
importantly you As an alumnusa of a State Department-funded exchange program you are
part of a global community of the best and brightest Build upon your exchange experience to
advance your goals your community and our world
State Alumni Opportunities and resources for you to connect with other alumni
middot Hundreds of grant job and event postings
middot Over 20000 free titles in the online research center
middot Access to apply for over $33 billion in funding opportunities
middot News about alumni projects alumni success stories
middot Participate in QampA Live discussions with experts
middot Share your reflections or research publications and join discussion forums
middot Find fellow alumni to network with others in your field or your region
middot Search for resumes or add your own to the global community
Continue the exchange as alumni
middot Be active in your local alumni community
middot Join State Alumni (httpsalumnistategov) and the international social network
ldquoExchanges Connectrdquo httpconnectstategov
middot Discover meet share learn grow and achieve
US Embassy DushanbeWeb httpdushanbeusembassygov
httprussiandushanbeusembassygov
bullDo you want to study in the United State
bullWant to learn more about these exchange programs at the US Embassy
Sign up for the mailing list from the Public Diplomacy section of the US Embassy Dushanbe to
find out about these programs and more Simply send a blank e-mail message to
usembassydushanbeprograms-subscribeyahoogroupscom
Educational Advising CenterAmerican Councils for International Education ACTRACCELS Dushanbe
734003 86 Tolstoy Street Tajikistan
To subscribe to the Education USA Weekly Update on scholarships and fellowships distribution list please
send your request to EducationUSAamericancouncils-tjorg
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 17
Sponsored jointly by a US embassy and a host country organization an American Corner
serves as an information outpost similar to a public library The multi-media book and
periodical collections are open and accessible Where possible associated reading or meeting
rooms are made available to host program events and activities (ie author readings speaker
programs films workshops meetings and exhibits) The fundamental function of the American
Corner is to make information about the United States available to foreign publics at large
American Corner consists of a collection of books in English from and about the United States
The book collection may include reference titles information products from the State
Department Office of International Information Programs works of fiction business and
government publications English Language Learning materials American Corners also provide
access to US information through access to the Internet audio and video products CDs and
CD-ROMS The Corners are staffed by host institution personnel
There are three American Corners currently functioning in Tajikistan in Dushanbe Khujand
and Kulob and two more to be opened soon in Khorog and Qurghon-Teppa
American Corners Contact Information
Dushanbe American Corner Qurghon-Teppa American Corner
Central Scientific Library Sworde-Teppa Center
Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan 25 Vahdat Street
33 Rudaki Avenue Tel (992) (3222) 29528
Tel (992) (37) 2275526 E-mail acqurghon_teppayahoocom
E-mail acdushanbemailru
Khujand American Corner Khorog American Corner
Asiri Public Library Educational Center
1 Lenin Street 1 Azizbek Street
Tel (992) (342) 260313 Tel (992) (3522) 22299
E-mail ackhujandramblerru E-mail ackhorogyahoocom
Kulob American Corner
Kulob Branch Technological University
Borbad Street 9th microregion
Tel (992) 918 57 92 25
E-mail ackulobyahoocom
American Corners Tajikistan
American Corners are partnerships between the Public Affairs
sections of United States Embassies and host institutions
They provide access to current and reliable information from
and about the United States via book collections the Internet
and through local programming to the general public overseas
or abroad
On July 2 2009 the Association of Fulbright Alumni and Informational Center on Human
Rights organized a virtual art exhibition at the American Corner in Dushanbe The exhibition
was dedicated to Independence Day of the US Alla Aslitdinova Director of Scientific Library
of Academy of Science and Fulbright alumna 2004-2005 made a presentation about American
history and the Memorial Day Holiday The students were very interested and asked many
questions Fulbright alumni also made presentations about USG educational exchange programs
and encourage students to participate in those programs
A Virtual Art Exhibition
From June 24-26 Malika Khakimova rsquo04
Farangis Nozimzoda rsquo07 and Kadamsho
Usufbekov rsquo05 participated in the ldquoTogether
We Carerdquo project organized by Kazakhstan
FLEX alumni in Almaty The purpose of the
project was to strengthen relationships
between the alumni community of the
participant countries and together solve
problems of financial world crises and border
related issues These issues were topics of the
debate tournament and round table
discussion which were held on the second day
of event Alumni plan to implement
solutions offered though the round tables
discussion and debate in their further work
within their own communities
ldquoTogether We Carerdquo Debate Tournament in Almaty
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 9
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 10
Fifteen FLEX alumni volunteered to help the US Embassy host more than 140 children from the
Tursun-Zade Orphanage for a full day of fun on May 10 Games and activities included football
basketball swimming and volleyball The children also learned traditional American games such as
hopscotch and ldquoSlip N Sliderdquo flew kites and made art projects The event included a full lunch
which was partially sponsored by the Sega Fredo and Morning Star Cafes A live band performed
traditional Tajik music in the afternoon The children brought their favorite toys back to the
orphanage
Embassy Hosts Day of Fun and Games for More Than
140 Orphans
On June 1 group of Khujand FLEX alumni together with initiative group ldquoOur Kidsrdquo visited the
orphanage in the city of Chkalovsk The event was divided into three parts The first part
consisted of introducing alumni to orphans and their teachers Alumni talked about the FLEX
program and motivated children to study English and participate in the FLEX tests After the
introduction children were divided in to three groups o play different games Alumni played
basketball tennis rockets American football and other American games with the children
American football was the most popular sport because it was something new for them FLEX
alumnus Mukhtor Soliev rsquo07 presented to the children his own football which he brought from
the US as a memento from the FLEX community By the end of the games participants of the
winning teams were awarded with presents The second part of the event took place indoors
Alumni showed pa resentation about the environment and had a session with children about
keeping the environment clean Afterward the session alumni organized mini coffee- break for
the children The third part of the event consisted of a poetry reading contest in which all
children participated They read poems in Tajik Russian and English languages and sang songs
At the end of the event alumni distributed clothes which they earlier collected through a
clothing drive
International Childrenrsquos Day Celebration With Orphans Chkalovsk
Farewell Party for Anne Benjaminson Cultural Affairs Officer
Poster ldquoWe Will Miss You Annerdquo During the meeting the alumni wished her the best of luck in
her further work shared their thoughts and their future plans After two years of acquaintance
the alumni thanked Anne for her wonderful cooperation with FLEX alumni In the end alumni
presented a memorable t-shirt and delicious cake which alumni specially ordered for Anne Ms
Benjaminson was amazed by the memorable t-shirt and sincerely thanked alumni for their work
For International Childrenrsquos Day Farangis
Nozimzoda lsquo07 Zurab Dodkhudoev lsquo07 and
Abdulvakob Hofizi lsquo09 visited the Global
Connections and Exchange program students
from school No8 for the deaf children in
Dushanbe on June 2 Especially for this event
alumni prepared variety of interesting
activities which were aimed to learn origami
and develop personal skills The event
consisted of three parts the first part
included introduction the second part
consisted of making photo portieres from the
magazines and during the third part of the
event children were learning origami ndash the
traditional Japanese art of paper folding
Children found these activities interesting
and were enthusiastic about implementing
them The event concluded with taking a lot
of pictures
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 11
On June 5 FLEX Alumni organized a
farewell party dedicated to Anne
Benjaminson ndash US Embassy Cultural
Affairs Officer Anne worked as the
Cultural Affairs Officer in Tajikistan for
two years and during this time
established warm and close relationships
with FLEX alumni For her support of all
FLEX alumni activities a group of
FLEX alumni made special preparations
for the farewell meeting They decorated
the conference hall in the American
Councils office with a big colored
ldquoSmileldquo International Childrenrsquos Day Celebration with
the Children from the Deaf School
ldquoRight To Happinessrdquo Project with Disabled Children and
Children With Poor Eyesight
Within the framework of the GYSD
FLEX alumni and Tajikistan
Assosiation of the Blind Children
organized a sale exhibition of hand made
objects mosaics and paintings of the
children with physical and mental
disabilities and poor eysight in
Molodejniy theater on April 26 This
event was supported by the US
Embassy which provided financial aid to
rent the theater The rest of the money
neccessary for the posters childrenrsquos
transportation and small gifts for
participants had been previously raised
by alumni On the day of the event
Kadamsho Usufbekov sbquo05 Shoira
Pulatova sbquo08 Zurab Dodkhudoev sbquo07 and
Farangis Nozizmoda sbquo07 early in the
morning got together in the hall of
Molodejniy theater to help decorators
from bdquoFormula Schastyardquo ndash decoration
agency who kindly consented to
decorate the Exibition and Concert halls
for free
The sale exhibition started at 10 am FLEX
alumni stayed near every table and answered
questions of the visitors After the exibition
alumni performed a concert with the
participation of the children with physical
and mental disabilities and poor eyesight
and what was suprise ndash Tajik Pop Stars For
their performance the Tajik Pop Stars did
not charge the alumni any money
The concert was led by two boys with poor
eyesight During the concert talented
children with disabilities sang songs
performed dances and read poems In
concert participated such Tajik Pop Stars as
Takhmina Niyozava and dance band ldquoWestrdquo
The children were very happy
Over all more than 150 school children
university students foreigners from
different NGOrsquos and other individuals
visited the exhibition and the concert This
event was highlighted on radio BBC Iran
and newsletter ldquoJumhuriyatrdquo
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 12
Issue No4 June 2009
On May 4 2009 IREX Tajikistan
organized a Grant Writing Seminar for
the Alumni Small Grant Program
(ASGP) and Project Smile (PS) at the
Tahvid Hotel Conference Hall in
Khujand The seminar was attended by
approximately 20 ECA alumni of
programs including UGRAD TEA
FLEX and Global Connections and
Exchange Education Programs Division
Program Coordinator Bakhtiyor Isoev
facilitated the
Page 13
seminar which aimed to familiarize alumni with the basic principles of designing a project and
writing successful grant applications for the upcoming October rounds of the Alumni Small Grant
Program (ASGP) and Project Smile (PS)
Alumni learned how to better identify and approach potential donors as well as general techniques
for writing quality grant applications Alumni also had a chance to share their past experiences
applying to grant programs with other participants and discussed lessons learned in the areas of
needs assessments cost-sharing and in-kind contributions sustainability and multiplier effect
issues budget and implementation feasibility goal and objective development and many more
All attendees received certificates of achievement and IREX staff encouraged alumni to apply for
upcoming rounds of ASGP and PS applications At the end everyone left the seminar with at least
five project ideas and newly equipped grant writing skills
Grant Writing Seminar
Public Speaking Skills Workshop
On May 27 2009 IREX
Tajikistan organized a Public
Speaking Skills Training in the
Dusti Amirkhon Business
Restaurantrsquos Conference Hall The
workshop was attended by
approximately 20 ECA alumni
living and studying in Sugd
Region These alumni include
UGRAD TEA FLEX and Global
Connections alumni as well as
2009-2010 Global UGRAD
finalists The workshop was
conducted in English by IREX
Tajikistan Education Programs
Division Program Coordinator
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 14
Bakhtiyor Isoev The goal of the workshop was to familiarize alumni with the basic principles of
public speaking and equip them with the skills necessary to feel confident while speaking in front
of people
After few energizing and teambuilding activities the first part of the workshop was dedicated to
getting to know what communication communication genres and the communication process are
Next all attendees were instructed to come up with and generate words on flipcharts that make
them think about public speaking Having played the game alumni presented their understanding
of public speaking The training continued with interactive games that helped equip participants
with the necessary skills to be better public speakers use and conduct PowerPoint presentations in
a more productive manner Afterwards participants were split into three groups to come up with
topics and make a short presentation about their idea The workshop ended with IREX Tajikistan
staff handing certificates of achievement all participants
UGrad alumna Masuda Sobitova visited the American Corner in Khujand and showed patrons a
Power Point presentation of her stay in the United States researching English teaching curriculum
development
Sobitova inspired the students by sharing her incredible experience in the United States studying at
Graceland University in Lamoni Iowa her internship and cultural presentations cooking Tajik
food and traveling to other states She introduced America to the audience in her presentation by
sharing very beautiful photos postcards presents and souvenirs After Sobitovas presentation the
students were eager to learn more about the UGrad program and asked lots of questions on how to
get better prepared and apply for such programs Sobitova responded to their questions applying
her considerable experience gained as a participant of the UGrad program
UGRAD Alumna Masuda Sobitova
Shares Her US Experience
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 15
UGRAD 2007-2008 alumna Mukhlisa Parpieva organized
a three-day educational training for her university
classmates at the student dorm of Khujand State
University May 20th through May 22nd The training
allowed students to learn about US Education System and
the Global UGRAD Program and its application process
On the second day participants has watched a movie in
English and have discussed it afterwards in English
UGRAD alumni Mahfuza Sobitova (UGRAD 2007-2008)
and Masuda Sobitova (UGRAD 2008-2009) provided their
support in organizing these activities in Khujand A third-
year student participant commented ldquoThis training has been
a good lesson for me and gave a lot of information about
education system of the US and study opportunities abroad
UGRAD Alumna Organizes Three-Day Educational Training
I was so glad I could participate in this
training I learned a lot Moreover I
enjoyed the Movie Night which was
fun and informative Thanks to the
IREX for supporting the events which
serve to provide students with very
useful informationrdquo
Mukhlisa noted in her report to
IREX Tajikistan Actually the Three-
Day Educational Training was the best
event I have ever conducted It was the
process of learning about opportunities
sharing ideas finding out about the
successful application that is how to fill
applications effectively and having fun
by watching the ldquoBend it Like
Bekhamrdquo movie During these three
days I enjoyed answering studentsrsquo
questions about studying abroad and my
own university experience in the US
Usually teachers are inspired by their
studentsrsquo active learning and like a
teacher I was so happy to see studentsrsquo
interests and active participation in all
activitiesrdquo
On May 29 2009 over 40 US Government-sponsored
alumni including alumni of the Global UGRAD FLEX
and TEA programs as well as Global UGRAD finalists
and other university students volunteered at the ldquoLetrsquosKeep the World Cleanrdquo service event in Kayrakkum The
purpose of the event was to raise the awareness among
alumni about environment protection and make alumni
contribute by cleaning the lakeshore The service was
organized by IREX Tajikistan in the framework of the
UGRAD and Muskie alumni programming with
cooperation of Youth Group for Protection of the
Environment (YGPE)
Letrsquos Keep the World Clean
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 16
Join State Alumni Your Global Community for alumni of
State Department exchange programs
Who are Alumni ndash Your Global Community
Alumni are past participants of US government-sponsored exchange programs With more
than 1000000 alumni worldwide State Alumni include world leaders achievers and
influencers Among this global community are 47 Nobel Laureates and over 300 chiefs of state
or heads of government They are politicians CEOs teachers authors artists and most
importantly you As an alumnusa of a State Department-funded exchange program you are
part of a global community of the best and brightest Build upon your exchange experience to
advance your goals your community and our world
State Alumni Opportunities and resources for you to connect with other alumni
middot Hundreds of grant job and event postings
middot Over 20000 free titles in the online research center
middot Access to apply for over $33 billion in funding opportunities
middot News about alumni projects alumni success stories
middot Participate in QampA Live discussions with experts
middot Share your reflections or research publications and join discussion forums
middot Find fellow alumni to network with others in your field or your region
middot Search for resumes or add your own to the global community
Continue the exchange as alumni
middot Be active in your local alumni community
middot Join State Alumni (httpsalumnistategov) and the international social network
ldquoExchanges Connectrdquo httpconnectstategov
middot Discover meet share learn grow and achieve
US Embassy DushanbeWeb httpdushanbeusembassygov
httprussiandushanbeusembassygov
bullDo you want to study in the United State
bullWant to learn more about these exchange programs at the US Embassy
Sign up for the mailing list from the Public Diplomacy section of the US Embassy Dushanbe to
find out about these programs and more Simply send a blank e-mail message to
usembassydushanbeprograms-subscribeyahoogroupscom
Educational Advising CenterAmerican Councils for International Education ACTRACCELS Dushanbe
734003 86 Tolstoy Street Tajikistan
To subscribe to the Education USA Weekly Update on scholarships and fellowships distribution list please
send your request to EducationUSAamericancouncils-tjorg
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 17
Sponsored jointly by a US embassy and a host country organization an American Corner
serves as an information outpost similar to a public library The multi-media book and
periodical collections are open and accessible Where possible associated reading or meeting
rooms are made available to host program events and activities (ie author readings speaker
programs films workshops meetings and exhibits) The fundamental function of the American
Corner is to make information about the United States available to foreign publics at large
American Corner consists of a collection of books in English from and about the United States
The book collection may include reference titles information products from the State
Department Office of International Information Programs works of fiction business and
government publications English Language Learning materials American Corners also provide
access to US information through access to the Internet audio and video products CDs and
CD-ROMS The Corners are staffed by host institution personnel
There are three American Corners currently functioning in Tajikistan in Dushanbe Khujand
and Kulob and two more to be opened soon in Khorog and Qurghon-Teppa
American Corners Contact Information
Dushanbe American Corner Qurghon-Teppa American Corner
Central Scientific Library Sworde-Teppa Center
Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan 25 Vahdat Street
33 Rudaki Avenue Tel (992) (3222) 29528
Tel (992) (37) 2275526 E-mail acqurghon_teppayahoocom
E-mail acdushanbemailru
Khujand American Corner Khorog American Corner
Asiri Public Library Educational Center
1 Lenin Street 1 Azizbek Street
Tel (992) (342) 260313 Tel (992) (3522) 22299
E-mail ackhujandramblerru E-mail ackhorogyahoocom
Kulob American Corner
Kulob Branch Technological University
Borbad Street 9th microregion
Tel (992) 918 57 92 25
E-mail ackulobyahoocom
American Corners Tajikistan
American Corners are partnerships between the Public Affairs
sections of United States Embassies and host institutions
They provide access to current and reliable information from
and about the United States via book collections the Internet
and through local programming to the general public overseas
or abroad
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 10
Fifteen FLEX alumni volunteered to help the US Embassy host more than 140 children from the
Tursun-Zade Orphanage for a full day of fun on May 10 Games and activities included football
basketball swimming and volleyball The children also learned traditional American games such as
hopscotch and ldquoSlip N Sliderdquo flew kites and made art projects The event included a full lunch
which was partially sponsored by the Sega Fredo and Morning Star Cafes A live band performed
traditional Tajik music in the afternoon The children brought their favorite toys back to the
orphanage
Embassy Hosts Day of Fun and Games for More Than
140 Orphans
On June 1 group of Khujand FLEX alumni together with initiative group ldquoOur Kidsrdquo visited the
orphanage in the city of Chkalovsk The event was divided into three parts The first part
consisted of introducing alumni to orphans and their teachers Alumni talked about the FLEX
program and motivated children to study English and participate in the FLEX tests After the
introduction children were divided in to three groups o play different games Alumni played
basketball tennis rockets American football and other American games with the children
American football was the most popular sport because it was something new for them FLEX
alumnus Mukhtor Soliev rsquo07 presented to the children his own football which he brought from
the US as a memento from the FLEX community By the end of the games participants of the
winning teams were awarded with presents The second part of the event took place indoors
Alumni showed pa resentation about the environment and had a session with children about
keeping the environment clean Afterward the session alumni organized mini coffee- break for
the children The third part of the event consisted of a poetry reading contest in which all
children participated They read poems in Tajik Russian and English languages and sang songs
At the end of the event alumni distributed clothes which they earlier collected through a
clothing drive
International Childrenrsquos Day Celebration With Orphans Chkalovsk
Farewell Party for Anne Benjaminson Cultural Affairs Officer
Poster ldquoWe Will Miss You Annerdquo During the meeting the alumni wished her the best of luck in
her further work shared their thoughts and their future plans After two years of acquaintance
the alumni thanked Anne for her wonderful cooperation with FLEX alumni In the end alumni
presented a memorable t-shirt and delicious cake which alumni specially ordered for Anne Ms
Benjaminson was amazed by the memorable t-shirt and sincerely thanked alumni for their work
For International Childrenrsquos Day Farangis
Nozimzoda lsquo07 Zurab Dodkhudoev lsquo07 and
Abdulvakob Hofizi lsquo09 visited the Global
Connections and Exchange program students
from school No8 for the deaf children in
Dushanbe on June 2 Especially for this event
alumni prepared variety of interesting
activities which were aimed to learn origami
and develop personal skills The event
consisted of three parts the first part
included introduction the second part
consisted of making photo portieres from the
magazines and during the third part of the
event children were learning origami ndash the
traditional Japanese art of paper folding
Children found these activities interesting
and were enthusiastic about implementing
them The event concluded with taking a lot
of pictures
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 11
On June 5 FLEX Alumni organized a
farewell party dedicated to Anne
Benjaminson ndash US Embassy Cultural
Affairs Officer Anne worked as the
Cultural Affairs Officer in Tajikistan for
two years and during this time
established warm and close relationships
with FLEX alumni For her support of all
FLEX alumni activities a group of
FLEX alumni made special preparations
for the farewell meeting They decorated
the conference hall in the American
Councils office with a big colored
ldquoSmileldquo International Childrenrsquos Day Celebration with
the Children from the Deaf School
ldquoRight To Happinessrdquo Project with Disabled Children and
Children With Poor Eyesight
Within the framework of the GYSD
FLEX alumni and Tajikistan
Assosiation of the Blind Children
organized a sale exhibition of hand made
objects mosaics and paintings of the
children with physical and mental
disabilities and poor eysight in
Molodejniy theater on April 26 This
event was supported by the US
Embassy which provided financial aid to
rent the theater The rest of the money
neccessary for the posters childrenrsquos
transportation and small gifts for
participants had been previously raised
by alumni On the day of the event
Kadamsho Usufbekov sbquo05 Shoira
Pulatova sbquo08 Zurab Dodkhudoev sbquo07 and
Farangis Nozizmoda sbquo07 early in the
morning got together in the hall of
Molodejniy theater to help decorators
from bdquoFormula Schastyardquo ndash decoration
agency who kindly consented to
decorate the Exibition and Concert halls
for free
The sale exhibition started at 10 am FLEX
alumni stayed near every table and answered
questions of the visitors After the exibition
alumni performed a concert with the
participation of the children with physical
and mental disabilities and poor eyesight
and what was suprise ndash Tajik Pop Stars For
their performance the Tajik Pop Stars did
not charge the alumni any money
The concert was led by two boys with poor
eyesight During the concert talented
children with disabilities sang songs
performed dances and read poems In
concert participated such Tajik Pop Stars as
Takhmina Niyozava and dance band ldquoWestrdquo
The children were very happy
Over all more than 150 school children
university students foreigners from
different NGOrsquos and other individuals
visited the exhibition and the concert This
event was highlighted on radio BBC Iran
and newsletter ldquoJumhuriyatrdquo
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 12
Issue No4 June 2009
On May 4 2009 IREX Tajikistan
organized a Grant Writing Seminar for
the Alumni Small Grant Program
(ASGP) and Project Smile (PS) at the
Tahvid Hotel Conference Hall in
Khujand The seminar was attended by
approximately 20 ECA alumni of
programs including UGRAD TEA
FLEX and Global Connections and
Exchange Education Programs Division
Program Coordinator Bakhtiyor Isoev
facilitated the
Page 13
seminar which aimed to familiarize alumni with the basic principles of designing a project and
writing successful grant applications for the upcoming October rounds of the Alumni Small Grant
Program (ASGP) and Project Smile (PS)
Alumni learned how to better identify and approach potential donors as well as general techniques
for writing quality grant applications Alumni also had a chance to share their past experiences
applying to grant programs with other participants and discussed lessons learned in the areas of
needs assessments cost-sharing and in-kind contributions sustainability and multiplier effect
issues budget and implementation feasibility goal and objective development and many more
All attendees received certificates of achievement and IREX staff encouraged alumni to apply for
upcoming rounds of ASGP and PS applications At the end everyone left the seminar with at least
five project ideas and newly equipped grant writing skills
Grant Writing Seminar
Public Speaking Skills Workshop
On May 27 2009 IREX
Tajikistan organized a Public
Speaking Skills Training in the
Dusti Amirkhon Business
Restaurantrsquos Conference Hall The
workshop was attended by
approximately 20 ECA alumni
living and studying in Sugd
Region These alumni include
UGRAD TEA FLEX and Global
Connections alumni as well as
2009-2010 Global UGRAD
finalists The workshop was
conducted in English by IREX
Tajikistan Education Programs
Division Program Coordinator
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 14
Bakhtiyor Isoev The goal of the workshop was to familiarize alumni with the basic principles of
public speaking and equip them with the skills necessary to feel confident while speaking in front
of people
After few energizing and teambuilding activities the first part of the workshop was dedicated to
getting to know what communication communication genres and the communication process are
Next all attendees were instructed to come up with and generate words on flipcharts that make
them think about public speaking Having played the game alumni presented their understanding
of public speaking The training continued with interactive games that helped equip participants
with the necessary skills to be better public speakers use and conduct PowerPoint presentations in
a more productive manner Afterwards participants were split into three groups to come up with
topics and make a short presentation about their idea The workshop ended with IREX Tajikistan
staff handing certificates of achievement all participants
UGrad alumna Masuda Sobitova visited the American Corner in Khujand and showed patrons a
Power Point presentation of her stay in the United States researching English teaching curriculum
development
Sobitova inspired the students by sharing her incredible experience in the United States studying at
Graceland University in Lamoni Iowa her internship and cultural presentations cooking Tajik
food and traveling to other states She introduced America to the audience in her presentation by
sharing very beautiful photos postcards presents and souvenirs After Sobitovas presentation the
students were eager to learn more about the UGrad program and asked lots of questions on how to
get better prepared and apply for such programs Sobitova responded to their questions applying
her considerable experience gained as a participant of the UGrad program
UGRAD Alumna Masuda Sobitova
Shares Her US Experience
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 15
UGRAD 2007-2008 alumna Mukhlisa Parpieva organized
a three-day educational training for her university
classmates at the student dorm of Khujand State
University May 20th through May 22nd The training
allowed students to learn about US Education System and
the Global UGRAD Program and its application process
On the second day participants has watched a movie in
English and have discussed it afterwards in English
UGRAD alumni Mahfuza Sobitova (UGRAD 2007-2008)
and Masuda Sobitova (UGRAD 2008-2009) provided their
support in organizing these activities in Khujand A third-
year student participant commented ldquoThis training has been
a good lesson for me and gave a lot of information about
education system of the US and study opportunities abroad
UGRAD Alumna Organizes Three-Day Educational Training
I was so glad I could participate in this
training I learned a lot Moreover I
enjoyed the Movie Night which was
fun and informative Thanks to the
IREX for supporting the events which
serve to provide students with very
useful informationrdquo
Mukhlisa noted in her report to
IREX Tajikistan Actually the Three-
Day Educational Training was the best
event I have ever conducted It was the
process of learning about opportunities
sharing ideas finding out about the
successful application that is how to fill
applications effectively and having fun
by watching the ldquoBend it Like
Bekhamrdquo movie During these three
days I enjoyed answering studentsrsquo
questions about studying abroad and my
own university experience in the US
Usually teachers are inspired by their
studentsrsquo active learning and like a
teacher I was so happy to see studentsrsquo
interests and active participation in all
activitiesrdquo
On May 29 2009 over 40 US Government-sponsored
alumni including alumni of the Global UGRAD FLEX
and TEA programs as well as Global UGRAD finalists
and other university students volunteered at the ldquoLetrsquosKeep the World Cleanrdquo service event in Kayrakkum The
purpose of the event was to raise the awareness among
alumni about environment protection and make alumni
contribute by cleaning the lakeshore The service was
organized by IREX Tajikistan in the framework of the
UGRAD and Muskie alumni programming with
cooperation of Youth Group for Protection of the
Environment (YGPE)
Letrsquos Keep the World Clean
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 16
Join State Alumni Your Global Community for alumni of
State Department exchange programs
Who are Alumni ndash Your Global Community
Alumni are past participants of US government-sponsored exchange programs With more
than 1000000 alumni worldwide State Alumni include world leaders achievers and
influencers Among this global community are 47 Nobel Laureates and over 300 chiefs of state
or heads of government They are politicians CEOs teachers authors artists and most
importantly you As an alumnusa of a State Department-funded exchange program you are
part of a global community of the best and brightest Build upon your exchange experience to
advance your goals your community and our world
State Alumni Opportunities and resources for you to connect with other alumni
middot Hundreds of grant job and event postings
middot Over 20000 free titles in the online research center
middot Access to apply for over $33 billion in funding opportunities
middot News about alumni projects alumni success stories
middot Participate in QampA Live discussions with experts
middot Share your reflections or research publications and join discussion forums
middot Find fellow alumni to network with others in your field or your region
middot Search for resumes or add your own to the global community
Continue the exchange as alumni
middot Be active in your local alumni community
middot Join State Alumni (httpsalumnistategov) and the international social network
ldquoExchanges Connectrdquo httpconnectstategov
middot Discover meet share learn grow and achieve
US Embassy DushanbeWeb httpdushanbeusembassygov
httprussiandushanbeusembassygov
bullDo you want to study in the United State
bullWant to learn more about these exchange programs at the US Embassy
Sign up for the mailing list from the Public Diplomacy section of the US Embassy Dushanbe to
find out about these programs and more Simply send a blank e-mail message to
usembassydushanbeprograms-subscribeyahoogroupscom
Educational Advising CenterAmerican Councils for International Education ACTRACCELS Dushanbe
734003 86 Tolstoy Street Tajikistan
To subscribe to the Education USA Weekly Update on scholarships and fellowships distribution list please
send your request to EducationUSAamericancouncils-tjorg
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 17
Sponsored jointly by a US embassy and a host country organization an American Corner
serves as an information outpost similar to a public library The multi-media book and
periodical collections are open and accessible Where possible associated reading or meeting
rooms are made available to host program events and activities (ie author readings speaker
programs films workshops meetings and exhibits) The fundamental function of the American
Corner is to make information about the United States available to foreign publics at large
American Corner consists of a collection of books in English from and about the United States
The book collection may include reference titles information products from the State
Department Office of International Information Programs works of fiction business and
government publications English Language Learning materials American Corners also provide
access to US information through access to the Internet audio and video products CDs and
CD-ROMS The Corners are staffed by host institution personnel
There are three American Corners currently functioning in Tajikistan in Dushanbe Khujand
and Kulob and two more to be opened soon in Khorog and Qurghon-Teppa
American Corners Contact Information
Dushanbe American Corner Qurghon-Teppa American Corner
Central Scientific Library Sworde-Teppa Center
Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan 25 Vahdat Street
33 Rudaki Avenue Tel (992) (3222) 29528
Tel (992) (37) 2275526 E-mail acqurghon_teppayahoocom
E-mail acdushanbemailru
Khujand American Corner Khorog American Corner
Asiri Public Library Educational Center
1 Lenin Street 1 Azizbek Street
Tel (992) (342) 260313 Tel (992) (3522) 22299
E-mail ackhujandramblerru E-mail ackhorogyahoocom
Kulob American Corner
Kulob Branch Technological University
Borbad Street 9th microregion
Tel (992) 918 57 92 25
E-mail ackulobyahoocom
American Corners Tajikistan
American Corners are partnerships between the Public Affairs
sections of United States Embassies and host institutions
They provide access to current and reliable information from
and about the United States via book collections the Internet
and through local programming to the general public overseas
or abroad
Farewell Party for Anne Benjaminson Cultural Affairs Officer
Poster ldquoWe Will Miss You Annerdquo During the meeting the alumni wished her the best of luck in
her further work shared their thoughts and their future plans After two years of acquaintance
the alumni thanked Anne for her wonderful cooperation with FLEX alumni In the end alumni
presented a memorable t-shirt and delicious cake which alumni specially ordered for Anne Ms
Benjaminson was amazed by the memorable t-shirt and sincerely thanked alumni for their work
For International Childrenrsquos Day Farangis
Nozimzoda lsquo07 Zurab Dodkhudoev lsquo07 and
Abdulvakob Hofizi lsquo09 visited the Global
Connections and Exchange program students
from school No8 for the deaf children in
Dushanbe on June 2 Especially for this event
alumni prepared variety of interesting
activities which were aimed to learn origami
and develop personal skills The event
consisted of three parts the first part
included introduction the second part
consisted of making photo portieres from the
magazines and during the third part of the
event children were learning origami ndash the
traditional Japanese art of paper folding
Children found these activities interesting
and were enthusiastic about implementing
them The event concluded with taking a lot
of pictures
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 11
On June 5 FLEX Alumni organized a
farewell party dedicated to Anne
Benjaminson ndash US Embassy Cultural
Affairs Officer Anne worked as the
Cultural Affairs Officer in Tajikistan for
two years and during this time
established warm and close relationships
with FLEX alumni For her support of all
FLEX alumni activities a group of
FLEX alumni made special preparations
for the farewell meeting They decorated
the conference hall in the American
Councils office with a big colored
ldquoSmileldquo International Childrenrsquos Day Celebration with
the Children from the Deaf School
ldquoRight To Happinessrdquo Project with Disabled Children and
Children With Poor Eyesight
Within the framework of the GYSD
FLEX alumni and Tajikistan
Assosiation of the Blind Children
organized a sale exhibition of hand made
objects mosaics and paintings of the
children with physical and mental
disabilities and poor eysight in
Molodejniy theater on April 26 This
event was supported by the US
Embassy which provided financial aid to
rent the theater The rest of the money
neccessary for the posters childrenrsquos
transportation and small gifts for
participants had been previously raised
by alumni On the day of the event
Kadamsho Usufbekov sbquo05 Shoira
Pulatova sbquo08 Zurab Dodkhudoev sbquo07 and
Farangis Nozizmoda sbquo07 early in the
morning got together in the hall of
Molodejniy theater to help decorators
from bdquoFormula Schastyardquo ndash decoration
agency who kindly consented to
decorate the Exibition and Concert halls
for free
The sale exhibition started at 10 am FLEX
alumni stayed near every table and answered
questions of the visitors After the exibition
alumni performed a concert with the
participation of the children with physical
and mental disabilities and poor eyesight
and what was suprise ndash Tajik Pop Stars For
their performance the Tajik Pop Stars did
not charge the alumni any money
The concert was led by two boys with poor
eyesight During the concert talented
children with disabilities sang songs
performed dances and read poems In
concert participated such Tajik Pop Stars as
Takhmina Niyozava and dance band ldquoWestrdquo
The children were very happy
Over all more than 150 school children
university students foreigners from
different NGOrsquos and other individuals
visited the exhibition and the concert This
event was highlighted on radio BBC Iran
and newsletter ldquoJumhuriyatrdquo
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 12
Issue No4 June 2009
On May 4 2009 IREX Tajikistan
organized a Grant Writing Seminar for
the Alumni Small Grant Program
(ASGP) and Project Smile (PS) at the
Tahvid Hotel Conference Hall in
Khujand The seminar was attended by
approximately 20 ECA alumni of
programs including UGRAD TEA
FLEX and Global Connections and
Exchange Education Programs Division
Program Coordinator Bakhtiyor Isoev
facilitated the
Page 13
seminar which aimed to familiarize alumni with the basic principles of designing a project and
writing successful grant applications for the upcoming October rounds of the Alumni Small Grant
Program (ASGP) and Project Smile (PS)
Alumni learned how to better identify and approach potential donors as well as general techniques
for writing quality grant applications Alumni also had a chance to share their past experiences
applying to grant programs with other participants and discussed lessons learned in the areas of
needs assessments cost-sharing and in-kind contributions sustainability and multiplier effect
issues budget and implementation feasibility goal and objective development and many more
All attendees received certificates of achievement and IREX staff encouraged alumni to apply for
upcoming rounds of ASGP and PS applications At the end everyone left the seminar with at least
five project ideas and newly equipped grant writing skills
Grant Writing Seminar
Public Speaking Skills Workshop
On May 27 2009 IREX
Tajikistan organized a Public
Speaking Skills Training in the
Dusti Amirkhon Business
Restaurantrsquos Conference Hall The
workshop was attended by
approximately 20 ECA alumni
living and studying in Sugd
Region These alumni include
UGRAD TEA FLEX and Global
Connections alumni as well as
2009-2010 Global UGRAD
finalists The workshop was
conducted in English by IREX
Tajikistan Education Programs
Division Program Coordinator
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 14
Bakhtiyor Isoev The goal of the workshop was to familiarize alumni with the basic principles of
public speaking and equip them with the skills necessary to feel confident while speaking in front
of people
After few energizing and teambuilding activities the first part of the workshop was dedicated to
getting to know what communication communication genres and the communication process are
Next all attendees were instructed to come up with and generate words on flipcharts that make
them think about public speaking Having played the game alumni presented their understanding
of public speaking The training continued with interactive games that helped equip participants
with the necessary skills to be better public speakers use and conduct PowerPoint presentations in
a more productive manner Afterwards participants were split into three groups to come up with
topics and make a short presentation about their idea The workshop ended with IREX Tajikistan
staff handing certificates of achievement all participants
UGrad alumna Masuda Sobitova visited the American Corner in Khujand and showed patrons a
Power Point presentation of her stay in the United States researching English teaching curriculum
development
Sobitova inspired the students by sharing her incredible experience in the United States studying at
Graceland University in Lamoni Iowa her internship and cultural presentations cooking Tajik
food and traveling to other states She introduced America to the audience in her presentation by
sharing very beautiful photos postcards presents and souvenirs After Sobitovas presentation the
students were eager to learn more about the UGrad program and asked lots of questions on how to
get better prepared and apply for such programs Sobitova responded to their questions applying
her considerable experience gained as a participant of the UGrad program
UGRAD Alumna Masuda Sobitova
Shares Her US Experience
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 15
UGRAD 2007-2008 alumna Mukhlisa Parpieva organized
a three-day educational training for her university
classmates at the student dorm of Khujand State
University May 20th through May 22nd The training
allowed students to learn about US Education System and
the Global UGRAD Program and its application process
On the second day participants has watched a movie in
English and have discussed it afterwards in English
UGRAD alumni Mahfuza Sobitova (UGRAD 2007-2008)
and Masuda Sobitova (UGRAD 2008-2009) provided their
support in organizing these activities in Khujand A third-
year student participant commented ldquoThis training has been
a good lesson for me and gave a lot of information about
education system of the US and study opportunities abroad
UGRAD Alumna Organizes Three-Day Educational Training
I was so glad I could participate in this
training I learned a lot Moreover I
enjoyed the Movie Night which was
fun and informative Thanks to the
IREX for supporting the events which
serve to provide students with very
useful informationrdquo
Mukhlisa noted in her report to
IREX Tajikistan Actually the Three-
Day Educational Training was the best
event I have ever conducted It was the
process of learning about opportunities
sharing ideas finding out about the
successful application that is how to fill
applications effectively and having fun
by watching the ldquoBend it Like
Bekhamrdquo movie During these three
days I enjoyed answering studentsrsquo
questions about studying abroad and my
own university experience in the US
Usually teachers are inspired by their
studentsrsquo active learning and like a
teacher I was so happy to see studentsrsquo
interests and active participation in all
activitiesrdquo
On May 29 2009 over 40 US Government-sponsored
alumni including alumni of the Global UGRAD FLEX
and TEA programs as well as Global UGRAD finalists
and other university students volunteered at the ldquoLetrsquosKeep the World Cleanrdquo service event in Kayrakkum The
purpose of the event was to raise the awareness among
alumni about environment protection and make alumni
contribute by cleaning the lakeshore The service was
organized by IREX Tajikistan in the framework of the
UGRAD and Muskie alumni programming with
cooperation of Youth Group for Protection of the
Environment (YGPE)
Letrsquos Keep the World Clean
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 16
Join State Alumni Your Global Community for alumni of
State Department exchange programs
Who are Alumni ndash Your Global Community
Alumni are past participants of US government-sponsored exchange programs With more
than 1000000 alumni worldwide State Alumni include world leaders achievers and
influencers Among this global community are 47 Nobel Laureates and over 300 chiefs of state
or heads of government They are politicians CEOs teachers authors artists and most
importantly you As an alumnusa of a State Department-funded exchange program you are
part of a global community of the best and brightest Build upon your exchange experience to
advance your goals your community and our world
State Alumni Opportunities and resources for you to connect with other alumni
middot Hundreds of grant job and event postings
middot Over 20000 free titles in the online research center
middot Access to apply for over $33 billion in funding opportunities
middot News about alumni projects alumni success stories
middot Participate in QampA Live discussions with experts
middot Share your reflections or research publications and join discussion forums
middot Find fellow alumni to network with others in your field or your region
middot Search for resumes or add your own to the global community
Continue the exchange as alumni
middot Be active in your local alumni community
middot Join State Alumni (httpsalumnistategov) and the international social network
ldquoExchanges Connectrdquo httpconnectstategov
middot Discover meet share learn grow and achieve
US Embassy DushanbeWeb httpdushanbeusembassygov
httprussiandushanbeusembassygov
bullDo you want to study in the United State
bullWant to learn more about these exchange programs at the US Embassy
Sign up for the mailing list from the Public Diplomacy section of the US Embassy Dushanbe to
find out about these programs and more Simply send a blank e-mail message to
usembassydushanbeprograms-subscribeyahoogroupscom
Educational Advising CenterAmerican Councils for International Education ACTRACCELS Dushanbe
734003 86 Tolstoy Street Tajikistan
To subscribe to the Education USA Weekly Update on scholarships and fellowships distribution list please
send your request to EducationUSAamericancouncils-tjorg
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 17
Sponsored jointly by a US embassy and a host country organization an American Corner
serves as an information outpost similar to a public library The multi-media book and
periodical collections are open and accessible Where possible associated reading or meeting
rooms are made available to host program events and activities (ie author readings speaker
programs films workshops meetings and exhibits) The fundamental function of the American
Corner is to make information about the United States available to foreign publics at large
American Corner consists of a collection of books in English from and about the United States
The book collection may include reference titles information products from the State
Department Office of International Information Programs works of fiction business and
government publications English Language Learning materials American Corners also provide
access to US information through access to the Internet audio and video products CDs and
CD-ROMS The Corners are staffed by host institution personnel
There are three American Corners currently functioning in Tajikistan in Dushanbe Khujand
and Kulob and two more to be opened soon in Khorog and Qurghon-Teppa
American Corners Contact Information
Dushanbe American Corner Qurghon-Teppa American Corner
Central Scientific Library Sworde-Teppa Center
Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan 25 Vahdat Street
33 Rudaki Avenue Tel (992) (3222) 29528
Tel (992) (37) 2275526 E-mail acqurghon_teppayahoocom
E-mail acdushanbemailru
Khujand American Corner Khorog American Corner
Asiri Public Library Educational Center
1 Lenin Street 1 Azizbek Street
Tel (992) (342) 260313 Tel (992) (3522) 22299
E-mail ackhujandramblerru E-mail ackhorogyahoocom
Kulob American Corner
Kulob Branch Technological University
Borbad Street 9th microregion
Tel (992) 918 57 92 25
E-mail ackulobyahoocom
American Corners Tajikistan
American Corners are partnerships between the Public Affairs
sections of United States Embassies and host institutions
They provide access to current and reliable information from
and about the United States via book collections the Internet
and through local programming to the general public overseas
or abroad
ldquoRight To Happinessrdquo Project with Disabled Children and
Children With Poor Eyesight
Within the framework of the GYSD
FLEX alumni and Tajikistan
Assosiation of the Blind Children
organized a sale exhibition of hand made
objects mosaics and paintings of the
children with physical and mental
disabilities and poor eysight in
Molodejniy theater on April 26 This
event was supported by the US
Embassy which provided financial aid to
rent the theater The rest of the money
neccessary for the posters childrenrsquos
transportation and small gifts for
participants had been previously raised
by alumni On the day of the event
Kadamsho Usufbekov sbquo05 Shoira
Pulatova sbquo08 Zurab Dodkhudoev sbquo07 and
Farangis Nozizmoda sbquo07 early in the
morning got together in the hall of
Molodejniy theater to help decorators
from bdquoFormula Schastyardquo ndash decoration
agency who kindly consented to
decorate the Exibition and Concert halls
for free
The sale exhibition started at 10 am FLEX
alumni stayed near every table and answered
questions of the visitors After the exibition
alumni performed a concert with the
participation of the children with physical
and mental disabilities and poor eyesight
and what was suprise ndash Tajik Pop Stars For
their performance the Tajik Pop Stars did
not charge the alumni any money
The concert was led by two boys with poor
eyesight During the concert talented
children with disabilities sang songs
performed dances and read poems In
concert participated such Tajik Pop Stars as
Takhmina Niyozava and dance band ldquoWestrdquo
The children were very happy
Over all more than 150 school children
university students foreigners from
different NGOrsquos and other individuals
visited the exhibition and the concert This
event was highlighted on radio BBC Iran
and newsletter ldquoJumhuriyatrdquo
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 12
Issue No4 June 2009
On May 4 2009 IREX Tajikistan
organized a Grant Writing Seminar for
the Alumni Small Grant Program
(ASGP) and Project Smile (PS) at the
Tahvid Hotel Conference Hall in
Khujand The seminar was attended by
approximately 20 ECA alumni of
programs including UGRAD TEA
FLEX and Global Connections and
Exchange Education Programs Division
Program Coordinator Bakhtiyor Isoev
facilitated the
Page 13
seminar which aimed to familiarize alumni with the basic principles of designing a project and
writing successful grant applications for the upcoming October rounds of the Alumni Small Grant
Program (ASGP) and Project Smile (PS)
Alumni learned how to better identify and approach potential donors as well as general techniques
for writing quality grant applications Alumni also had a chance to share their past experiences
applying to grant programs with other participants and discussed lessons learned in the areas of
needs assessments cost-sharing and in-kind contributions sustainability and multiplier effect
issues budget and implementation feasibility goal and objective development and many more
All attendees received certificates of achievement and IREX staff encouraged alumni to apply for
upcoming rounds of ASGP and PS applications At the end everyone left the seminar with at least
five project ideas and newly equipped grant writing skills
Grant Writing Seminar
Public Speaking Skills Workshop
On May 27 2009 IREX
Tajikistan organized a Public
Speaking Skills Training in the
Dusti Amirkhon Business
Restaurantrsquos Conference Hall The
workshop was attended by
approximately 20 ECA alumni
living and studying in Sugd
Region These alumni include
UGRAD TEA FLEX and Global
Connections alumni as well as
2009-2010 Global UGRAD
finalists The workshop was
conducted in English by IREX
Tajikistan Education Programs
Division Program Coordinator
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 14
Bakhtiyor Isoev The goal of the workshop was to familiarize alumni with the basic principles of
public speaking and equip them with the skills necessary to feel confident while speaking in front
of people
After few energizing and teambuilding activities the first part of the workshop was dedicated to
getting to know what communication communication genres and the communication process are
Next all attendees were instructed to come up with and generate words on flipcharts that make
them think about public speaking Having played the game alumni presented their understanding
of public speaking The training continued with interactive games that helped equip participants
with the necessary skills to be better public speakers use and conduct PowerPoint presentations in
a more productive manner Afterwards participants were split into three groups to come up with
topics and make a short presentation about their idea The workshop ended with IREX Tajikistan
staff handing certificates of achievement all participants
UGrad alumna Masuda Sobitova visited the American Corner in Khujand and showed patrons a
Power Point presentation of her stay in the United States researching English teaching curriculum
development
Sobitova inspired the students by sharing her incredible experience in the United States studying at
Graceland University in Lamoni Iowa her internship and cultural presentations cooking Tajik
food and traveling to other states She introduced America to the audience in her presentation by
sharing very beautiful photos postcards presents and souvenirs After Sobitovas presentation the
students were eager to learn more about the UGrad program and asked lots of questions on how to
get better prepared and apply for such programs Sobitova responded to their questions applying
her considerable experience gained as a participant of the UGrad program
UGRAD Alumna Masuda Sobitova
Shares Her US Experience
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 15
UGRAD 2007-2008 alumna Mukhlisa Parpieva organized
a three-day educational training for her university
classmates at the student dorm of Khujand State
University May 20th through May 22nd The training
allowed students to learn about US Education System and
the Global UGRAD Program and its application process
On the second day participants has watched a movie in
English and have discussed it afterwards in English
UGRAD alumni Mahfuza Sobitova (UGRAD 2007-2008)
and Masuda Sobitova (UGRAD 2008-2009) provided their
support in organizing these activities in Khujand A third-
year student participant commented ldquoThis training has been
a good lesson for me and gave a lot of information about
education system of the US and study opportunities abroad
UGRAD Alumna Organizes Three-Day Educational Training
I was so glad I could participate in this
training I learned a lot Moreover I
enjoyed the Movie Night which was
fun and informative Thanks to the
IREX for supporting the events which
serve to provide students with very
useful informationrdquo
Mukhlisa noted in her report to
IREX Tajikistan Actually the Three-
Day Educational Training was the best
event I have ever conducted It was the
process of learning about opportunities
sharing ideas finding out about the
successful application that is how to fill
applications effectively and having fun
by watching the ldquoBend it Like
Bekhamrdquo movie During these three
days I enjoyed answering studentsrsquo
questions about studying abroad and my
own university experience in the US
Usually teachers are inspired by their
studentsrsquo active learning and like a
teacher I was so happy to see studentsrsquo
interests and active participation in all
activitiesrdquo
On May 29 2009 over 40 US Government-sponsored
alumni including alumni of the Global UGRAD FLEX
and TEA programs as well as Global UGRAD finalists
and other university students volunteered at the ldquoLetrsquosKeep the World Cleanrdquo service event in Kayrakkum The
purpose of the event was to raise the awareness among
alumni about environment protection and make alumni
contribute by cleaning the lakeshore The service was
organized by IREX Tajikistan in the framework of the
UGRAD and Muskie alumni programming with
cooperation of Youth Group for Protection of the
Environment (YGPE)
Letrsquos Keep the World Clean
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 16
Join State Alumni Your Global Community for alumni of
State Department exchange programs
Who are Alumni ndash Your Global Community
Alumni are past participants of US government-sponsored exchange programs With more
than 1000000 alumni worldwide State Alumni include world leaders achievers and
influencers Among this global community are 47 Nobel Laureates and over 300 chiefs of state
or heads of government They are politicians CEOs teachers authors artists and most
importantly you As an alumnusa of a State Department-funded exchange program you are
part of a global community of the best and brightest Build upon your exchange experience to
advance your goals your community and our world
State Alumni Opportunities and resources for you to connect with other alumni
middot Hundreds of grant job and event postings
middot Over 20000 free titles in the online research center
middot Access to apply for over $33 billion in funding opportunities
middot News about alumni projects alumni success stories
middot Participate in QampA Live discussions with experts
middot Share your reflections or research publications and join discussion forums
middot Find fellow alumni to network with others in your field or your region
middot Search for resumes or add your own to the global community
Continue the exchange as alumni
middot Be active in your local alumni community
middot Join State Alumni (httpsalumnistategov) and the international social network
ldquoExchanges Connectrdquo httpconnectstategov
middot Discover meet share learn grow and achieve
US Embassy DushanbeWeb httpdushanbeusembassygov
httprussiandushanbeusembassygov
bullDo you want to study in the United State
bullWant to learn more about these exchange programs at the US Embassy
Sign up for the mailing list from the Public Diplomacy section of the US Embassy Dushanbe to
find out about these programs and more Simply send a blank e-mail message to
usembassydushanbeprograms-subscribeyahoogroupscom
Educational Advising CenterAmerican Councils for International Education ACTRACCELS Dushanbe
734003 86 Tolstoy Street Tajikistan
To subscribe to the Education USA Weekly Update on scholarships and fellowships distribution list please
send your request to EducationUSAamericancouncils-tjorg
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 17
Sponsored jointly by a US embassy and a host country organization an American Corner
serves as an information outpost similar to a public library The multi-media book and
periodical collections are open and accessible Where possible associated reading or meeting
rooms are made available to host program events and activities (ie author readings speaker
programs films workshops meetings and exhibits) The fundamental function of the American
Corner is to make information about the United States available to foreign publics at large
American Corner consists of a collection of books in English from and about the United States
The book collection may include reference titles information products from the State
Department Office of International Information Programs works of fiction business and
government publications English Language Learning materials American Corners also provide
access to US information through access to the Internet audio and video products CDs and
CD-ROMS The Corners are staffed by host institution personnel
There are three American Corners currently functioning in Tajikistan in Dushanbe Khujand
and Kulob and two more to be opened soon in Khorog and Qurghon-Teppa
American Corners Contact Information
Dushanbe American Corner Qurghon-Teppa American Corner
Central Scientific Library Sworde-Teppa Center
Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan 25 Vahdat Street
33 Rudaki Avenue Tel (992) (3222) 29528
Tel (992) (37) 2275526 E-mail acqurghon_teppayahoocom
E-mail acdushanbemailru
Khujand American Corner Khorog American Corner
Asiri Public Library Educational Center
1 Lenin Street 1 Azizbek Street
Tel (992) (342) 260313 Tel (992) (3522) 22299
E-mail ackhujandramblerru E-mail ackhorogyahoocom
Kulob American Corner
Kulob Branch Technological University
Borbad Street 9th microregion
Tel (992) 918 57 92 25
E-mail ackulobyahoocom
American Corners Tajikistan
American Corners are partnerships between the Public Affairs
sections of United States Embassies and host institutions
They provide access to current and reliable information from
and about the United States via book collections the Internet
and through local programming to the general public overseas
or abroad
Issue No4 June 2009
On May 4 2009 IREX Tajikistan
organized a Grant Writing Seminar for
the Alumni Small Grant Program
(ASGP) and Project Smile (PS) at the
Tahvid Hotel Conference Hall in
Khujand The seminar was attended by
approximately 20 ECA alumni of
programs including UGRAD TEA
FLEX and Global Connections and
Exchange Education Programs Division
Program Coordinator Bakhtiyor Isoev
facilitated the
Page 13
seminar which aimed to familiarize alumni with the basic principles of designing a project and
writing successful grant applications for the upcoming October rounds of the Alumni Small Grant
Program (ASGP) and Project Smile (PS)
Alumni learned how to better identify and approach potential donors as well as general techniques
for writing quality grant applications Alumni also had a chance to share their past experiences
applying to grant programs with other participants and discussed lessons learned in the areas of
needs assessments cost-sharing and in-kind contributions sustainability and multiplier effect
issues budget and implementation feasibility goal and objective development and many more
All attendees received certificates of achievement and IREX staff encouraged alumni to apply for
upcoming rounds of ASGP and PS applications At the end everyone left the seminar with at least
five project ideas and newly equipped grant writing skills
Grant Writing Seminar
Public Speaking Skills Workshop
On May 27 2009 IREX
Tajikistan organized a Public
Speaking Skills Training in the
Dusti Amirkhon Business
Restaurantrsquos Conference Hall The
workshop was attended by
approximately 20 ECA alumni
living and studying in Sugd
Region These alumni include
UGRAD TEA FLEX and Global
Connections alumni as well as
2009-2010 Global UGRAD
finalists The workshop was
conducted in English by IREX
Tajikistan Education Programs
Division Program Coordinator
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 14
Bakhtiyor Isoev The goal of the workshop was to familiarize alumni with the basic principles of
public speaking and equip them with the skills necessary to feel confident while speaking in front
of people
After few energizing and teambuilding activities the first part of the workshop was dedicated to
getting to know what communication communication genres and the communication process are
Next all attendees were instructed to come up with and generate words on flipcharts that make
them think about public speaking Having played the game alumni presented their understanding
of public speaking The training continued with interactive games that helped equip participants
with the necessary skills to be better public speakers use and conduct PowerPoint presentations in
a more productive manner Afterwards participants were split into three groups to come up with
topics and make a short presentation about their idea The workshop ended with IREX Tajikistan
staff handing certificates of achievement all participants
UGrad alumna Masuda Sobitova visited the American Corner in Khujand and showed patrons a
Power Point presentation of her stay in the United States researching English teaching curriculum
development
Sobitova inspired the students by sharing her incredible experience in the United States studying at
Graceland University in Lamoni Iowa her internship and cultural presentations cooking Tajik
food and traveling to other states She introduced America to the audience in her presentation by
sharing very beautiful photos postcards presents and souvenirs After Sobitovas presentation the
students were eager to learn more about the UGrad program and asked lots of questions on how to
get better prepared and apply for such programs Sobitova responded to their questions applying
her considerable experience gained as a participant of the UGrad program
UGRAD Alumna Masuda Sobitova
Shares Her US Experience
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 15
UGRAD 2007-2008 alumna Mukhlisa Parpieva organized
a three-day educational training for her university
classmates at the student dorm of Khujand State
University May 20th through May 22nd The training
allowed students to learn about US Education System and
the Global UGRAD Program and its application process
On the second day participants has watched a movie in
English and have discussed it afterwards in English
UGRAD alumni Mahfuza Sobitova (UGRAD 2007-2008)
and Masuda Sobitova (UGRAD 2008-2009) provided their
support in organizing these activities in Khujand A third-
year student participant commented ldquoThis training has been
a good lesson for me and gave a lot of information about
education system of the US and study opportunities abroad
UGRAD Alumna Organizes Three-Day Educational Training
I was so glad I could participate in this
training I learned a lot Moreover I
enjoyed the Movie Night which was
fun and informative Thanks to the
IREX for supporting the events which
serve to provide students with very
useful informationrdquo
Mukhlisa noted in her report to
IREX Tajikistan Actually the Three-
Day Educational Training was the best
event I have ever conducted It was the
process of learning about opportunities
sharing ideas finding out about the
successful application that is how to fill
applications effectively and having fun
by watching the ldquoBend it Like
Bekhamrdquo movie During these three
days I enjoyed answering studentsrsquo
questions about studying abroad and my
own university experience in the US
Usually teachers are inspired by their
studentsrsquo active learning and like a
teacher I was so happy to see studentsrsquo
interests and active participation in all
activitiesrdquo
On May 29 2009 over 40 US Government-sponsored
alumni including alumni of the Global UGRAD FLEX
and TEA programs as well as Global UGRAD finalists
and other university students volunteered at the ldquoLetrsquosKeep the World Cleanrdquo service event in Kayrakkum The
purpose of the event was to raise the awareness among
alumni about environment protection and make alumni
contribute by cleaning the lakeshore The service was
organized by IREX Tajikistan in the framework of the
UGRAD and Muskie alumni programming with
cooperation of Youth Group for Protection of the
Environment (YGPE)
Letrsquos Keep the World Clean
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 16
Join State Alumni Your Global Community for alumni of
State Department exchange programs
Who are Alumni ndash Your Global Community
Alumni are past participants of US government-sponsored exchange programs With more
than 1000000 alumni worldwide State Alumni include world leaders achievers and
influencers Among this global community are 47 Nobel Laureates and over 300 chiefs of state
or heads of government They are politicians CEOs teachers authors artists and most
importantly you As an alumnusa of a State Department-funded exchange program you are
part of a global community of the best and brightest Build upon your exchange experience to
advance your goals your community and our world
State Alumni Opportunities and resources for you to connect with other alumni
middot Hundreds of grant job and event postings
middot Over 20000 free titles in the online research center
middot Access to apply for over $33 billion in funding opportunities
middot News about alumni projects alumni success stories
middot Participate in QampA Live discussions with experts
middot Share your reflections or research publications and join discussion forums
middot Find fellow alumni to network with others in your field or your region
middot Search for resumes or add your own to the global community
Continue the exchange as alumni
middot Be active in your local alumni community
middot Join State Alumni (httpsalumnistategov) and the international social network
ldquoExchanges Connectrdquo httpconnectstategov
middot Discover meet share learn grow and achieve
US Embassy DushanbeWeb httpdushanbeusembassygov
httprussiandushanbeusembassygov
bullDo you want to study in the United State
bullWant to learn more about these exchange programs at the US Embassy
Sign up for the mailing list from the Public Diplomacy section of the US Embassy Dushanbe to
find out about these programs and more Simply send a blank e-mail message to
usembassydushanbeprograms-subscribeyahoogroupscom
Educational Advising CenterAmerican Councils for International Education ACTRACCELS Dushanbe
734003 86 Tolstoy Street Tajikistan
To subscribe to the Education USA Weekly Update on scholarships and fellowships distribution list please
send your request to EducationUSAamericancouncils-tjorg
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 17
Sponsored jointly by a US embassy and a host country organization an American Corner
serves as an information outpost similar to a public library The multi-media book and
periodical collections are open and accessible Where possible associated reading or meeting
rooms are made available to host program events and activities (ie author readings speaker
programs films workshops meetings and exhibits) The fundamental function of the American
Corner is to make information about the United States available to foreign publics at large
American Corner consists of a collection of books in English from and about the United States
The book collection may include reference titles information products from the State
Department Office of International Information Programs works of fiction business and
government publications English Language Learning materials American Corners also provide
access to US information through access to the Internet audio and video products CDs and
CD-ROMS The Corners are staffed by host institution personnel
There are three American Corners currently functioning in Tajikistan in Dushanbe Khujand
and Kulob and two more to be opened soon in Khorog and Qurghon-Teppa
American Corners Contact Information
Dushanbe American Corner Qurghon-Teppa American Corner
Central Scientific Library Sworde-Teppa Center
Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan 25 Vahdat Street
33 Rudaki Avenue Tel (992) (3222) 29528
Tel (992) (37) 2275526 E-mail acqurghon_teppayahoocom
E-mail acdushanbemailru
Khujand American Corner Khorog American Corner
Asiri Public Library Educational Center
1 Lenin Street 1 Azizbek Street
Tel (992) (342) 260313 Tel (992) (3522) 22299
E-mail ackhujandramblerru E-mail ackhorogyahoocom
Kulob American Corner
Kulob Branch Technological University
Borbad Street 9th microregion
Tel (992) 918 57 92 25
E-mail ackulobyahoocom
American Corners Tajikistan
American Corners are partnerships between the Public Affairs
sections of United States Embassies and host institutions
They provide access to current and reliable information from
and about the United States via book collections the Internet
and through local programming to the general public overseas
or abroad
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 14
Bakhtiyor Isoev The goal of the workshop was to familiarize alumni with the basic principles of
public speaking and equip them with the skills necessary to feel confident while speaking in front
of people
After few energizing and teambuilding activities the first part of the workshop was dedicated to
getting to know what communication communication genres and the communication process are
Next all attendees were instructed to come up with and generate words on flipcharts that make
them think about public speaking Having played the game alumni presented their understanding
of public speaking The training continued with interactive games that helped equip participants
with the necessary skills to be better public speakers use and conduct PowerPoint presentations in
a more productive manner Afterwards participants were split into three groups to come up with
topics and make a short presentation about their idea The workshop ended with IREX Tajikistan
staff handing certificates of achievement all participants
UGrad alumna Masuda Sobitova visited the American Corner in Khujand and showed patrons a
Power Point presentation of her stay in the United States researching English teaching curriculum
development
Sobitova inspired the students by sharing her incredible experience in the United States studying at
Graceland University in Lamoni Iowa her internship and cultural presentations cooking Tajik
food and traveling to other states She introduced America to the audience in her presentation by
sharing very beautiful photos postcards presents and souvenirs After Sobitovas presentation the
students were eager to learn more about the UGrad program and asked lots of questions on how to
get better prepared and apply for such programs Sobitova responded to their questions applying
her considerable experience gained as a participant of the UGrad program
UGRAD Alumna Masuda Sobitova
Shares Her US Experience
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 15
UGRAD 2007-2008 alumna Mukhlisa Parpieva organized
a three-day educational training for her university
classmates at the student dorm of Khujand State
University May 20th through May 22nd The training
allowed students to learn about US Education System and
the Global UGRAD Program and its application process
On the second day participants has watched a movie in
English and have discussed it afterwards in English
UGRAD alumni Mahfuza Sobitova (UGRAD 2007-2008)
and Masuda Sobitova (UGRAD 2008-2009) provided their
support in organizing these activities in Khujand A third-
year student participant commented ldquoThis training has been
a good lesson for me and gave a lot of information about
education system of the US and study opportunities abroad
UGRAD Alumna Organizes Three-Day Educational Training
I was so glad I could participate in this
training I learned a lot Moreover I
enjoyed the Movie Night which was
fun and informative Thanks to the
IREX for supporting the events which
serve to provide students with very
useful informationrdquo
Mukhlisa noted in her report to
IREX Tajikistan Actually the Three-
Day Educational Training was the best
event I have ever conducted It was the
process of learning about opportunities
sharing ideas finding out about the
successful application that is how to fill
applications effectively and having fun
by watching the ldquoBend it Like
Bekhamrdquo movie During these three
days I enjoyed answering studentsrsquo
questions about studying abroad and my
own university experience in the US
Usually teachers are inspired by their
studentsrsquo active learning and like a
teacher I was so happy to see studentsrsquo
interests and active participation in all
activitiesrdquo
On May 29 2009 over 40 US Government-sponsored
alumni including alumni of the Global UGRAD FLEX
and TEA programs as well as Global UGRAD finalists
and other university students volunteered at the ldquoLetrsquosKeep the World Cleanrdquo service event in Kayrakkum The
purpose of the event was to raise the awareness among
alumni about environment protection and make alumni
contribute by cleaning the lakeshore The service was
organized by IREX Tajikistan in the framework of the
UGRAD and Muskie alumni programming with
cooperation of Youth Group for Protection of the
Environment (YGPE)
Letrsquos Keep the World Clean
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 16
Join State Alumni Your Global Community for alumni of
State Department exchange programs
Who are Alumni ndash Your Global Community
Alumni are past participants of US government-sponsored exchange programs With more
than 1000000 alumni worldwide State Alumni include world leaders achievers and
influencers Among this global community are 47 Nobel Laureates and over 300 chiefs of state
or heads of government They are politicians CEOs teachers authors artists and most
importantly you As an alumnusa of a State Department-funded exchange program you are
part of a global community of the best and brightest Build upon your exchange experience to
advance your goals your community and our world
State Alumni Opportunities and resources for you to connect with other alumni
middot Hundreds of grant job and event postings
middot Over 20000 free titles in the online research center
middot Access to apply for over $33 billion in funding opportunities
middot News about alumni projects alumni success stories
middot Participate in QampA Live discussions with experts
middot Share your reflections or research publications and join discussion forums
middot Find fellow alumni to network with others in your field or your region
middot Search for resumes or add your own to the global community
Continue the exchange as alumni
middot Be active in your local alumni community
middot Join State Alumni (httpsalumnistategov) and the international social network
ldquoExchanges Connectrdquo httpconnectstategov
middot Discover meet share learn grow and achieve
US Embassy DushanbeWeb httpdushanbeusembassygov
httprussiandushanbeusembassygov
bullDo you want to study in the United State
bullWant to learn more about these exchange programs at the US Embassy
Sign up for the mailing list from the Public Diplomacy section of the US Embassy Dushanbe to
find out about these programs and more Simply send a blank e-mail message to
usembassydushanbeprograms-subscribeyahoogroupscom
Educational Advising CenterAmerican Councils for International Education ACTRACCELS Dushanbe
734003 86 Tolstoy Street Tajikistan
To subscribe to the Education USA Weekly Update on scholarships and fellowships distribution list please
send your request to EducationUSAamericancouncils-tjorg
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 17
Sponsored jointly by a US embassy and a host country organization an American Corner
serves as an information outpost similar to a public library The multi-media book and
periodical collections are open and accessible Where possible associated reading or meeting
rooms are made available to host program events and activities (ie author readings speaker
programs films workshops meetings and exhibits) The fundamental function of the American
Corner is to make information about the United States available to foreign publics at large
American Corner consists of a collection of books in English from and about the United States
The book collection may include reference titles information products from the State
Department Office of International Information Programs works of fiction business and
government publications English Language Learning materials American Corners also provide
access to US information through access to the Internet audio and video products CDs and
CD-ROMS The Corners are staffed by host institution personnel
There are three American Corners currently functioning in Tajikistan in Dushanbe Khujand
and Kulob and two more to be opened soon in Khorog and Qurghon-Teppa
American Corners Contact Information
Dushanbe American Corner Qurghon-Teppa American Corner
Central Scientific Library Sworde-Teppa Center
Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan 25 Vahdat Street
33 Rudaki Avenue Tel (992) (3222) 29528
Tel (992) (37) 2275526 E-mail acqurghon_teppayahoocom
E-mail acdushanbemailru
Khujand American Corner Khorog American Corner
Asiri Public Library Educational Center
1 Lenin Street 1 Azizbek Street
Tel (992) (342) 260313 Tel (992) (3522) 22299
E-mail ackhujandramblerru E-mail ackhorogyahoocom
Kulob American Corner
Kulob Branch Technological University
Borbad Street 9th microregion
Tel (992) 918 57 92 25
E-mail ackulobyahoocom
American Corners Tajikistan
American Corners are partnerships between the Public Affairs
sections of United States Embassies and host institutions
They provide access to current and reliable information from
and about the United States via book collections the Internet
and through local programming to the general public overseas
or abroad
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 15
UGRAD 2007-2008 alumna Mukhlisa Parpieva organized
a three-day educational training for her university
classmates at the student dorm of Khujand State
University May 20th through May 22nd The training
allowed students to learn about US Education System and
the Global UGRAD Program and its application process
On the second day participants has watched a movie in
English and have discussed it afterwards in English
UGRAD alumni Mahfuza Sobitova (UGRAD 2007-2008)
and Masuda Sobitova (UGRAD 2008-2009) provided their
support in organizing these activities in Khujand A third-
year student participant commented ldquoThis training has been
a good lesson for me and gave a lot of information about
education system of the US and study opportunities abroad
UGRAD Alumna Organizes Three-Day Educational Training
I was so glad I could participate in this
training I learned a lot Moreover I
enjoyed the Movie Night which was
fun and informative Thanks to the
IREX for supporting the events which
serve to provide students with very
useful informationrdquo
Mukhlisa noted in her report to
IREX Tajikistan Actually the Three-
Day Educational Training was the best
event I have ever conducted It was the
process of learning about opportunities
sharing ideas finding out about the
successful application that is how to fill
applications effectively and having fun
by watching the ldquoBend it Like
Bekhamrdquo movie During these three
days I enjoyed answering studentsrsquo
questions about studying abroad and my
own university experience in the US
Usually teachers are inspired by their
studentsrsquo active learning and like a
teacher I was so happy to see studentsrsquo
interests and active participation in all
activitiesrdquo
On May 29 2009 over 40 US Government-sponsored
alumni including alumni of the Global UGRAD FLEX
and TEA programs as well as Global UGRAD finalists
and other university students volunteered at the ldquoLetrsquosKeep the World Cleanrdquo service event in Kayrakkum The
purpose of the event was to raise the awareness among
alumni about environment protection and make alumni
contribute by cleaning the lakeshore The service was
organized by IREX Tajikistan in the framework of the
UGRAD and Muskie alumni programming with
cooperation of Youth Group for Protection of the
Environment (YGPE)
Letrsquos Keep the World Clean
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 16
Join State Alumni Your Global Community for alumni of
State Department exchange programs
Who are Alumni ndash Your Global Community
Alumni are past participants of US government-sponsored exchange programs With more
than 1000000 alumni worldwide State Alumni include world leaders achievers and
influencers Among this global community are 47 Nobel Laureates and over 300 chiefs of state
or heads of government They are politicians CEOs teachers authors artists and most
importantly you As an alumnusa of a State Department-funded exchange program you are
part of a global community of the best and brightest Build upon your exchange experience to
advance your goals your community and our world
State Alumni Opportunities and resources for you to connect with other alumni
middot Hundreds of grant job and event postings
middot Over 20000 free titles in the online research center
middot Access to apply for over $33 billion in funding opportunities
middot News about alumni projects alumni success stories
middot Participate in QampA Live discussions with experts
middot Share your reflections or research publications and join discussion forums
middot Find fellow alumni to network with others in your field or your region
middot Search for resumes or add your own to the global community
Continue the exchange as alumni
middot Be active in your local alumni community
middot Join State Alumni (httpsalumnistategov) and the international social network
ldquoExchanges Connectrdquo httpconnectstategov
middot Discover meet share learn grow and achieve
US Embassy DushanbeWeb httpdushanbeusembassygov
httprussiandushanbeusembassygov
bullDo you want to study in the United State
bullWant to learn more about these exchange programs at the US Embassy
Sign up for the mailing list from the Public Diplomacy section of the US Embassy Dushanbe to
find out about these programs and more Simply send a blank e-mail message to
usembassydushanbeprograms-subscribeyahoogroupscom
Educational Advising CenterAmerican Councils for International Education ACTRACCELS Dushanbe
734003 86 Tolstoy Street Tajikistan
To subscribe to the Education USA Weekly Update on scholarships and fellowships distribution list please
send your request to EducationUSAamericancouncils-tjorg
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 17
Sponsored jointly by a US embassy and a host country organization an American Corner
serves as an information outpost similar to a public library The multi-media book and
periodical collections are open and accessible Where possible associated reading or meeting
rooms are made available to host program events and activities (ie author readings speaker
programs films workshops meetings and exhibits) The fundamental function of the American
Corner is to make information about the United States available to foreign publics at large
American Corner consists of a collection of books in English from and about the United States
The book collection may include reference titles information products from the State
Department Office of International Information Programs works of fiction business and
government publications English Language Learning materials American Corners also provide
access to US information through access to the Internet audio and video products CDs and
CD-ROMS The Corners are staffed by host institution personnel
There are three American Corners currently functioning in Tajikistan in Dushanbe Khujand
and Kulob and two more to be opened soon in Khorog and Qurghon-Teppa
American Corners Contact Information
Dushanbe American Corner Qurghon-Teppa American Corner
Central Scientific Library Sworde-Teppa Center
Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan 25 Vahdat Street
33 Rudaki Avenue Tel (992) (3222) 29528
Tel (992) (37) 2275526 E-mail acqurghon_teppayahoocom
E-mail acdushanbemailru
Khujand American Corner Khorog American Corner
Asiri Public Library Educational Center
1 Lenin Street 1 Azizbek Street
Tel (992) (342) 260313 Tel (992) (3522) 22299
E-mail ackhujandramblerru E-mail ackhorogyahoocom
Kulob American Corner
Kulob Branch Technological University
Borbad Street 9th microregion
Tel (992) 918 57 92 25
E-mail ackulobyahoocom
American Corners Tajikistan
American Corners are partnerships between the Public Affairs
sections of United States Embassies and host institutions
They provide access to current and reliable information from
and about the United States via book collections the Internet
and through local programming to the general public overseas
or abroad
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 16
Join State Alumni Your Global Community for alumni of
State Department exchange programs
Who are Alumni ndash Your Global Community
Alumni are past participants of US government-sponsored exchange programs With more
than 1000000 alumni worldwide State Alumni include world leaders achievers and
influencers Among this global community are 47 Nobel Laureates and over 300 chiefs of state
or heads of government They are politicians CEOs teachers authors artists and most
importantly you As an alumnusa of a State Department-funded exchange program you are
part of a global community of the best and brightest Build upon your exchange experience to
advance your goals your community and our world
State Alumni Opportunities and resources for you to connect with other alumni
middot Hundreds of grant job and event postings
middot Over 20000 free titles in the online research center
middot Access to apply for over $33 billion in funding opportunities
middot News about alumni projects alumni success stories
middot Participate in QampA Live discussions with experts
middot Share your reflections or research publications and join discussion forums
middot Find fellow alumni to network with others in your field or your region
middot Search for resumes or add your own to the global community
Continue the exchange as alumni
middot Be active in your local alumni community
middot Join State Alumni (httpsalumnistategov) and the international social network
ldquoExchanges Connectrdquo httpconnectstategov
middot Discover meet share learn grow and achieve
US Embassy DushanbeWeb httpdushanbeusembassygov
httprussiandushanbeusembassygov
bullDo you want to study in the United State
bullWant to learn more about these exchange programs at the US Embassy
Sign up for the mailing list from the Public Diplomacy section of the US Embassy Dushanbe to
find out about these programs and more Simply send a blank e-mail message to
usembassydushanbeprograms-subscribeyahoogroupscom
Educational Advising CenterAmerican Councils for International Education ACTRACCELS Dushanbe
734003 86 Tolstoy Street Tajikistan
To subscribe to the Education USA Weekly Update on scholarships and fellowships distribution list please
send your request to EducationUSAamericancouncils-tjorg
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 17
Sponsored jointly by a US embassy and a host country organization an American Corner
serves as an information outpost similar to a public library The multi-media book and
periodical collections are open and accessible Where possible associated reading or meeting
rooms are made available to host program events and activities (ie author readings speaker
programs films workshops meetings and exhibits) The fundamental function of the American
Corner is to make information about the United States available to foreign publics at large
American Corner consists of a collection of books in English from and about the United States
The book collection may include reference titles information products from the State
Department Office of International Information Programs works of fiction business and
government publications English Language Learning materials American Corners also provide
access to US information through access to the Internet audio and video products CDs and
CD-ROMS The Corners are staffed by host institution personnel
There are three American Corners currently functioning in Tajikistan in Dushanbe Khujand
and Kulob and two more to be opened soon in Khorog and Qurghon-Teppa
American Corners Contact Information
Dushanbe American Corner Qurghon-Teppa American Corner
Central Scientific Library Sworde-Teppa Center
Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan 25 Vahdat Street
33 Rudaki Avenue Tel (992) (3222) 29528
Tel (992) (37) 2275526 E-mail acqurghon_teppayahoocom
E-mail acdushanbemailru
Khujand American Corner Khorog American Corner
Asiri Public Library Educational Center
1 Lenin Street 1 Azizbek Street
Tel (992) (342) 260313 Tel (992) (3522) 22299
E-mail ackhujandramblerru E-mail ackhorogyahoocom
Kulob American Corner
Kulob Branch Technological University
Borbad Street 9th microregion
Tel (992) 918 57 92 25
E-mail ackulobyahoocom
American Corners Tajikistan
American Corners are partnerships between the Public Affairs
sections of United States Embassies and host institutions
They provide access to current and reliable information from
and about the United States via book collections the Internet
and through local programming to the general public overseas
or abroad
Issue No4 June 2009
Page 17
Sponsored jointly by a US embassy and a host country organization an American Corner
serves as an information outpost similar to a public library The multi-media book and
periodical collections are open and accessible Where possible associated reading or meeting
rooms are made available to host program events and activities (ie author readings speaker
programs films workshops meetings and exhibits) The fundamental function of the American
Corner is to make information about the United States available to foreign publics at large
American Corner consists of a collection of books in English from and about the United States
The book collection may include reference titles information products from the State
Department Office of International Information Programs works of fiction business and
government publications English Language Learning materials American Corners also provide
access to US information through access to the Internet audio and video products CDs and
CD-ROMS The Corners are staffed by host institution personnel
There are three American Corners currently functioning in Tajikistan in Dushanbe Khujand
and Kulob and two more to be opened soon in Khorog and Qurghon-Teppa
American Corners Contact Information
Dushanbe American Corner Qurghon-Teppa American Corner
Central Scientific Library Sworde-Teppa Center
Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan 25 Vahdat Street
33 Rudaki Avenue Tel (992) (3222) 29528
Tel (992) (37) 2275526 E-mail acqurghon_teppayahoocom
E-mail acdushanbemailru
Khujand American Corner Khorog American Corner
Asiri Public Library Educational Center
1 Lenin Street 1 Azizbek Street
Tel (992) (342) 260313 Tel (992) (3522) 22299
E-mail ackhujandramblerru E-mail ackhorogyahoocom
Kulob American Corner
Kulob Branch Technological University
Borbad Street 9th microregion
Tel (992) 918 57 92 25
E-mail ackulobyahoocom
American Corners Tajikistan
American Corners are partnerships between the Public Affairs
sections of United States Embassies and host institutions
They provide access to current and reliable information from
and about the United States via book collections the Internet
and through local programming to the general public overseas
or abroad
Recommended